Shadi Samra: Master of Oud and Oriental Fragrances

Shadi Samra brings nearly two decades of expertise to the fragrance industry, establishing himself as a leading authority on Oud and oriental perfumery. His career spans significant roles including regional manager at Arabian Oud and scent expert for Fragrance Du Bois, where he has created memorable compositions that bridge traditional Middle Eastern perfumery with contemporary sensibilities.

Samra's artistic philosophy centers on the profound connection between fragrance and memory. He believes that strong fragrances hold memories more effectively than any other medium, making his mission to "put emotion into a bottle" particularly meaningful. This approach drives his creative process, where each composition aims to create unforgettable sensory experiences that evoke personal recollections and cultural connections.

His deep understanding of Oud oil evaluation sets him apart in the industry. Samra assesses these precious ingredients through multiple dimensions - appearance, touch, color, scent, and laboratory analysis. This meticulous approach to ingredient selection reflects his commitment to quality and authenticity, values that permeate every aspect of his work.

As a former board member of the Fragrance Foundation Arabia and eight-year judge for the Fragrance Oscars, Samra has shaped industry standards while advocating for natural ingredients and sustainable production practices. His influence extends beyond creation into education and industry development.

Samra's portfolio for Fragrance Du Bois showcases his versatility and cultural sensitivity. Milano demonstrates his ability to capture the essence of Italian glamour through a sophisticated leather composition enhanced with Sicilian bergamot and precious saffron. The fragrance opens with citrusy brightness before revealing a heart of fruity notes and sacred frankincense, settling into a rich leather base that embodies old-world elegance.

New York 5th Avenue represents his interpretation of urban sophistication, blending fresh bergamot and rich rose with sweet caramel and violet. The composition's woody base of cashmere wood and guaiac creates a perfect balance of floral and gourmand elements, capturing the winter allure of Manhattan's most prestigious street.

Solstis exemplifies Samra's skill in creating versatile compositions that work across seasons. This spicy-woody fragrance charts celestial energy through crisp apple and citrus notes, enhanced by cardamom and nutmeg, grounding in Japanese vetiver and creamy sandalwood.

Samra's work extends beyond individual fragrances to cultural preservation and innovation. He recognizes perfume's deep significance in Arab culture, where fragrances enhance presence and confidence. His expertise in perfume layering - a traditional Gulf practice - informs his modern compositions, ensuring they honor cultural heritage while appealing to contemporary tastes. Through his creations and industry involvement, Samra continues to elevate oriental perfumery on the global stage.