Attar vs Perfume: Ittar vs Eau de Parfum, Explained

If some fragrances come as tiny oils and others as sprays, the difference comes down to one thing: alcohol. At Qiwaya we craft both — attars and perfumes.

What is an attar (ittar)?

An attar — also spelled ittar — is a concentrated, alcohol-free perfume oil, traditionally distilled in Kannauj, India. With no alcohol, an attar sits close to the skin, unfolds slowly, and lasts for hours. It's intimate, halal-friendly, and a little goes a long way.

What is an eau de parfum?

An eau de parfum (EDP) is an alcohol-based spray. The alcohol carries the scent into the air, giving bigger projection and room-filling sillage. If you want to be noticed as you walk past, reach for a perfume like Shab or Mahtab.

Which should you choose?

  • Choose an attar for a personal, skin-close scent that lasts — try Noor or Anbar.
  • Choose a perfume for projection and an instant statement.

Either way, you're wearing real ingredients, blended with patience. Explore the full house of attars and perfumes.