Rooted in Saudi Arabia’s rich fragrance heritage and shaped by a commitment to rare natural ingredients, Batlah is redefining the art of haute perfumery in the region. Founded by HRH Prince Mohammed Alfaisal Alsaud, the brand draws inspiration from traditional Arabian perfumery, particularly the prized Taif Rose, to create fragrances that honour heritage while embracing a refined, contemporary sensibility.
With a focus on craftsmanship, patience and purity of materials, Batlah stands apart in an industry often driven by speed and mass production. Each scent is designed to evolve naturally on the skin, reflecting a philosophy rooted in restraint, quality and authenticity. As interest in Middle Eastern perfumery continues to grow globally, Batlah represents a new generation of regional fragrance houses preserving tradition while shaping the future of scent.
Here, HRH Prince Mohammed Alfaisal Alsaud shares the inspiration behind the brand, the significance of Saudi Arabia’s fragrance heritage and his vision for a more refined, material-led approach to perfumery.
Tell us about the origins of Batlah. What inspired you to create a Saudi haute perfumery house?
The story started in 2015 as we were working to refine and increase the production of Saudi Arabia’s Taif Rose, which lead us to the conclusion that such raw material will always be rare and limited by nature, being the top of its grade in comparison to all other rose oils, we took that as a sign for Batlah to create fragrances using the same characteristics of the Taif Rose (Natural, highest grade) oils which led us to create a Saudi luxury Haute Perfumery House.
Where did your personal love for fragrance begin, and what is your earliest memory connected to scent?
I have loved fragrance as long as I can remember. Fragrance is integrated in the Saudi social fabric and heritage; the first distillation of essential oils was conducted by Arabian Scholars. The oldest trade route of incense and essential oils passed through the heart of Saudi, in poetry, gifts of Kings and in celebrations, in every household in Saudi Arabia, you will find a story of fragrance of some sort. One of my most cherished memories was of the Taif Rose, which my grandfather used to gift us when we were very young.
Saudi Arabia has a deep fragrance heritage. How does Batlah interpret and preserve this tradition for a contemporary audience?
Saudi Arabia’s fragrance heritage is profound, and we have always felt that it should be approached with reverence rather than reinvention. At Batlah, we preserve that tradition by remaining faithful to the principles that once defined fine perfumery in the region: natural materials, uncompromising quality, and a respect for the character of each raw ingredient. What changes is the level of refinement. We use contemporary techniques and technologies not to alter that heritage, but to render it with greater precision and purity. The objective is to retain the soul of traditional perfumery while presenting it with a clarity and sophistication that speaks to the present. For us, continuity matters more than novelty. We are simply carrying the tradition forward in its most considered form.
Batlah is known for using rare and natural ingredients. Why was it important for you to focus on this approach, and how does it shape the final fragrance experience?
From the beginning, the intention was to focus purely on creating high-quality fragrances, as if nothing else mattered but the material itself and the audience that truly values it. Rare, natural ingredients offer something that cannot be replicated. They have depth, subtlety, and a natural evolution on the skin that feels alive and unforced.
This shapes the fragrance in a very quiet way. It is not about immediate impact, but about how it develops over time-more nuanced, more personal, and truer to its origin. Ultimately, it allows one to experience the beauty of the raw material itself, in its most refined form.
How would you describe the Batlah signature?
Batlah’s signature is defined by restraint and material. It is less about a fixed style and more about a consistent standard: clarity, depth, and respect for the natural character of each ingredient. There is a certain quietness to it. The compositions are composed rather than constructed, allowing the materials to speak with precision.
For whom are Batlah fragrances created?
For those who believe that the most refined form of beauty is the one that is simple yet carries depth.
The fragrance industry in the region is evolving rapidly. How do you see the Middle East influencing global perfumery today?
The Middle East has always had a deep relationship with perfumery. What is changing now is its global influence. There is a growing appreciation for the region’s understanding of raw materials and a more intimate way of wearing fragrance, one that values depth, presence, and character over trends. In many ways, it is not introducing something new but sharing our heritage with a global audience.
As a founder, what have been some of the biggest challenges in building a Haute perfumery brand?
The greatest challenge is discipline. Choosing patience and restraint in an environment that favours speed. Choosing the long-term brand benefits on a daily basis over short-term gains.
How do you balance heritage and innovation when creating new fragrances for Batlah?
Heritage is a continuous cycle of innovation that was created over time. The way we see it, we are in a cycle in which we work to preserve the essence of perfumery rather than lose it altogether.
Looking ahead, what is your long-term vision for Batlah, and how would you like the brand to shape the future of fragrance in the region?
The vision is to grow with intention, without compromising the standard. If Batlah can encourage a more refined, material-led approach to perfumery in the region, that in itself would be meaningful.
What is the fragrance you choose to wear most often?
Cashmere, Taif Rose, Aqua or Nahar.
What message would you send to our readers about the brand?
I would invite them to experience a long-lost Beauty.
By Lindsay Judge
