It is undeniable that Arabic culture and perfumes are strictly connected. The inhabitants of the Arabian Gulf have enjoyed the use of perfumes and they traded them for thousands-years.
The importance of perfumes in the Arabian Gulf countries has not faded all; it is still a major part of the local customs. Incense burning inside the home is a common practice in the UAE to welcome guests as a sign of hospitality. It is burnt before guests enter, to give the house a fresh and enchanting fragrance.
Incense burners or Medkhan – traditionally placed at the entrance of the house, come in different shapes and styles with engraved decorations.
Dukhoon and oud wood are one of the most popular Arabic incense; it comes in different forms, like small sticks, powder, balls to break off, or bricks made up of a mixture of spices which are burnt to produce a pleasant scented rich thick smoke that is very long-lasting.
It is burnt using charcoal of wood or manufactured charcoal discs, but many people nowadays use less charming electrical incense burners. On the market, it is possible to find various differently scented Dukhoon from strong scented to milder ones, with sweet floral notes, to spicy and fresh scents.
Oud wood and Dukhoon are used generally on special occasions, social functions and religious ceremonies; its sweet scent lingers the air to lift positive energy. In many Arab countries, it is still common to pass Dukhoon amongst the guests in the Majlis as a gesture of hospitality. To give a scent to a clothing, just expose the cloth directly to the smoke of Dukhoon for a minute.
Traditionally, frankincense incense was also burnt for its believed healing and magic power, to treat respiratory diseases and dismiss bad spirits. It is also said that incense can enhance the mood and motivate creativity.
Incense burning is not completely alien to the rest of the world. Christians are frequently seen burning incense in the same method as the Arab do, during church services and at Christian homes as well for blessing.