When I first arrived in Saudi Arabia, I was so focused on the international luxury brands and global retailers that I almost overlooked one of the most rewarding aspects of shopping in the Kingdom: the incredible local and regional brands that have been crafted, perfected, and cherished in this part of the world for generations. These Saudi and regional brands offer something that international labels simply cannot—authentic cultural heritage, traditional craftsmanship, and products that are deeply rooted in Arabian traditions.
From exquisite perfumes that have been blended using centuries-old techniques to premium dates that are considered among the finest in the world, from traditional clothing to contemporary regional fashion labels, local and regional brands in Saudi Arabia represent the soul of Arabian commerce and culture. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll introduce you to the must-know local and regional brands that every visitor to Saudi Arabia—and particularly Riyadh—should experience.
Why Local and Regional Brands Matter
Before diving into specific brands, it’s worth understanding why local and regional brands deserve your attention when shopping in Riyadh and throughout Saudi Arabia.
- Authentic Cultural Experience: These brands offer genuine Arabian products that reflect centuries of tradition and cultural heritage. When you purchase from local brands, you’re not just buying a product; you’re taking home a piece of Saudi culture.
- Exceptional Quality: Many local brands, particularly in categories like perfumes, dates, and gold jewelry, offer quality that rivals or exceeds international alternatives. Arabian perfume houses, for example, have perfected their craft over generations.
- Better Value: Local and regional brands often provide superior value compared to imported international products. You’re paying for quality and craftsmanship without the premium markup of international shipping and brand positioning.
- Perfect Souvenirs: If you’re visiting Saudi Arabia as a tourist, local brands offer the most authentic and meaningful souvenirs and gifts to bring back home. A bottle of authentic Arabian oud or a box of premium Saudi dates tells a much more interesting story than generic international brands.
- Supporting Local Economy: Choosing local and regional brands supports Saudi businesses, artisans, and the local economy, contributing to the Kingdom’s economic diversification goals.
Arabian Perfumes: The Crown Jewels of Local Brands
If there’s one category where local and regional brands absolutely dominate, it’s perfumes. Arabian perfume houses have been creating exquisite scents for centuries, and their mastery of oud, amber, musk, and floral notes is unmatched anywhere in the world.
Arabian Oud
When I first walked into an Arabian Oud boutique, I was overwhelmed by the sheer variety and complexity of scents. Arabian Oud is arguably the most prestigious and well-known perfume brand in the region, with a history spanning over three decades. The brand specializes in traditional Arabian fragrances, with a particular focus on oud-based perfumes.
What makes Arabian Oud special is its commitment to using high-quality natural ingredients. The brand sources the finest oud wood from Southeast Asia and blends it with other precious materials to create fragrances that are rich, long-lasting, and distinctly Arabian. Their signature scents like “Kalemat” and “Woody” have become icons in the perfume world.
Arabian Oud operates numerous boutiques across Saudi Arabia, including locations in major malls like Kingdom Centre Mall and Riyadh Gallery Mall. The staff are incredibly knowledgeable and will help you find the perfect scent based on your preferences.
Abdul Samad Al Qurashi
Another legendary name in Arabian perfumery, Abdul Samad Al Qurashi has been crafting exceptional fragrances since 1852. This family-owned business represents one of the oldest and most respected perfume houses in the region.
What I love about Abdul Samad Al Qurashi is their dedication to traditional methods while also embracing innovation. They offer everything from pure oud chips that you can burn as incense to modern perfume sprays that blend Arabian and Western fragrance profiles. Their “Dehn Al Oud” collection is particularly renowned for its purity and quality.
The brand also offers beautiful traditional perfume bottles and accessories, making their products perfect gifts. You’ll find Abdul Samad Al Qurashi boutiques in most major shopping areas, and I particularly recommend visiting their stores in traditional souks like Souq Al Zal for the full authentic experience.
Swiss Arabian
Swiss Arabian represents a fascinating blend of Arabian perfume traditions with Swiss precision and quality standards. Founded in 1974, the brand has become one of the largest perfume manufacturers in the UAE and Saudi Arabia.
What sets Swiss Arabian apart is their ability to create fragrances that appeal to both Eastern and Western tastes. Their perfumes often combine traditional Arabian ingredients like oud, rose, and amber with contemporary Western fragrance notes. This makes them an excellent choice if you’re new to Arabian perfumes and want something that bridges both worlds.
Their “Shaghaf Oud” and “Casablanca” lines are particularly popular and offer excellent value for the quality you receive.
Where to Find Arabian Perfumes in Riyadh
For the best selection and authentic experience, I recommend exploring the traditional souks. The Al Batha Market and Dira Souq both have numerous perfume shops where you can discover smaller, artisanal perfume makers alongside the major brands. The experience of having a perfume expert blend a custom scent for you is something you won’t forget.
For more information on traditional shopping experiences, check out our comprehensive guide to Traditional Souks in Riyadh.
Premium Dates: Saudi Arabia’s Edible Gold
Saudi Arabia, and particularly the Al-Ahsa region, produces some of the finest dates in the world. Local date brands have elevated this ancient fruit to gourmet status, and no visit to Saudi Arabia is complete without trying—and probably buying—premium Saudi dates.
Bateel
Bateel is the undisputed luxury leader in the date market. When I first tasted Bateel dates, I understood why they’re often called “edible gold.” The company sources the finest date varieties—Khidri, Kholas, Segai, and the prized Medjool—and presents them in beautifully packaged gift boxes that look more like jewelry than food.
What makes Bateel exceptional is their attention to every detail. They hand-select each date, ensuring perfect ripeness, size, and quality. Their filled dates—stuffed with ingredients like orange peel, roasted almonds, or dark chocolate—are particularly exquisite and make perfect gifts.
Bateel operates elegant boutiques and cafes in major malls throughout Riyadh. Their cafes serve date-based desserts, smoothies, and gourmet food items, providing a complete Bateel experience. You’ll find Bateel locations in Al Nakheel Mall and other premium shopping destinations.
Al Barakah Dates
For those seeking authentic Saudi dates at more accessible price points, Al Barakah Dates offers exceptional quality without the luxury brand premium. This local brand specializes in traditional Saudi date varieties, particularly Ajwa dates from Medina, which hold special religious and cultural significance.
Al Barakah’s Ajwa dates are known for their soft texture, rich flavor, and natural sweetness. The brand also offers Sukkary dates, another premium Saudi variety known for its caramel-like taste and melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Where to Buy Dates in Riyadh
While you can find premium date brands in modern malls, I also recommend visiting traditional markets for a more authentic experience and better prices. The date sections in Al Batha Market offer an incredible variety of dates at various price points, and vendors are usually happy to let you sample before buying.
For more details on what to buy in Saudi Arabia, including dates and other local products, see our guide on What to Buy in Riyadh.
Regional Fashion Brands: Contemporary Arabian Style
While international fashion brands dominate the Saudi market, several regional fashion brands have carved out significant niches by offering contemporary designs with Arabian influences.
Splash
Splash is one of the most successful regional fashion retailers, offering trendy, affordable clothing for men, women, and children. Founded in 1993 in the UAE, Splash has grown to become a household name across the GCC region.
What I appreciate about Splash is their ability to offer current fashion trends at very accessible prices. The quality is surprisingly good for the price point, and they’re particularly strong in casual wear and basics. Their modest fashion collections are well-designed and cater specifically to regional preferences.
You’ll find Splash stores in virtually every major mall in Riyadh, often as anchor tenants. They’re an excellent option for budget-conscious shoppers who don’t want to compromise on style.
Centrepoint
Centrepoint is more than just a fashion brand—it’s a department store concept that brings together multiple regional brands under one roof. The Centrepoint umbrella includes Splash, Babyshop, Shoe Mart, and Lifestyle, creating a one-stop shopping destination for the whole family.
The Centrepoint stores offer excellent value and a curated selection of products that cater specifically to regional tastes and needs. I often recommend Centrepoint to visitors looking for practical, affordable shopping without the premium prices of international brands.
Mikyajy
Mikyajy is a regional cosmetics brand that has successfully competed with international beauty brands by offering quality makeup at accessible prices. The brand understands the specific needs and preferences of Middle Eastern women, particularly when it comes to foundation shades, eye makeup for modest looks, and long-lasting formulas suitable for the hot climate.
What sets Mikyajy apart is their focus on creating products that work well in the Middle Eastern environment and complement regional skin tones. Their makeup artists in stores are also very knowledgeable and provide excellent customer service.
Traditional Clothing and Textiles
For those interested in traditional Saudi clothing and textiles, several local brands and artisans offer authentic, high-quality options.
Thobes and Abayas
While many shops sell thobes (traditional men’s robes) and abayas (traditional women’s outer garments), certain local tailors and boutiques have built reputations for exceptional quality and craftsmanship.
In Riyadh, the traditional souks, particularly Dira Souq, are the best places to find authentic thobes and abayas. Many shops offer custom tailoring services, allowing you to have a garment made to your exact measurements using high-quality fabrics.
For abayas, you’ll find everything from simple, traditional black designs to modern, embellished pieces that incorporate contemporary fashion elements while maintaining modesty. The craftsmanship and attention to detail in high-quality abayas is truly impressive.
Traditional Textiles
Local textile merchants in traditional markets offer beautiful Arabian fabrics, including silk, cotton, and wool textiles with traditional patterns and embroidery. These make excellent materials for custom clothing or beautiful decorative items for your home.
Food and Beverage Brands
Beyond dates, Saudi Arabia has developed several noteworthy food and beverage brands that are worth trying.
Al Marai
Al Marai is Saudi Arabia’s largest dairy company and one of the most recognizable food brands in the region. Their dairy products—milk, yogurt, cheese, and butter—are staples in Saudi households and are known for consistent quality.
What’s particularly impressive about Al Marai is their commitment to local production. They operate one of the world’s largest vertically integrated dairy farms in Saudi Arabia, ensuring freshness and quality control throughout the production process.
Almaraai Juice
Under the Al Marai umbrella, Almaraai juice products offer a variety of fruit juices and drinks that are popular throughout the region. Their mango and mixed fruit juices are particularly beloved.
Nadec
Nadec is another major Saudi dairy and food company that competes with Al Marai. Their products are widely available and offer good quality at competitive prices. Nadec’s flavored milk products are particularly popular with children and families.
Where to Shop for Local and Regional Brands in Riyadh
Finding local and regional brands in Riyadh is easy once you know where to look.
Traditional Souks
For the most authentic experience and the widest selection of traditional local products—perfumes, dates, spices, textiles, and handicrafts—the traditional souks are unbeatable. Our guides to Souq Al Zal, Al Batha Market, and Dira Souq provide detailed information on navigating these vibrant markets.
Modern Malls
Most modern malls in Riyadh feature a mix of international and local brands. Riyadh Gallery Mall and Panorama Mall both have excellent selections of regional fashion brands like Splash and Centrepoint, as well as boutiques for Arabian Oud and other local perfume brands.
Specialty Stores
For premium local products like Bateel dates and high-end perfumes, look for standalone boutiques in luxury malls like Kingdom Centre Mall.
Tips for Shopping Local and Regional Brands
Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask shop staff about products, especially in perfume shops and date stores. They’re usually very knowledgeable and happy to explain the differences between varieties and help you find exactly what you’re looking for.
Sample Before Buying: Most perfume shops and date vendors encourage sampling. Take advantage of this to ensure you’re getting exactly what you want.
Compare Prices: Prices for local products can vary significantly between traditional souks and modern malls. For the best deals, particularly on dates, spices, and textiles, traditional markets often offer better value. Check our Budget Shopping in Riyadh guide for money-saving tips.
Buy Authentic: Stick to reputable shops and established brands to ensure you’re getting authentic products, especially for perfumes and premium dates.
Consider Shipping: If you’re buying significant quantities of dates or other food products, ask about international shipping options. Many premium brands offer this service.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the best local brands to buy as souvenirs from Saudi Arabia?
A: Arabian Oud or Abdul Samad Al Qurashi perfumes, Bateel dates, and traditional textiles from the souks make excellent, authentic souvenirs that represent Saudi culture.
Q: Are local perfume brands cheaper than international luxury perfumes?
A: Generally yes, especially when you consider the quality. Arabian perfume houses offer exceptional quality at prices that are often lower than international luxury perfume brands.
Q: Where can I find the best selection of local brands in Riyadh?
A: Traditional souks like Al Batha Market and Souq Al Zal offer the widest variety of local products, while modern malls provide a more comfortable shopping environment with curated selections.
Q: Are Saudi dates really that special?
A: Absolutely. Saudi Arabia, particularly the Al-Ahsa region, produces some of the world’s finest date varieties. The quality, taste, and texture of premium Saudi dates like Ajwa and Sukkary are exceptional.
Q: Can I negotiate prices on local brands?
A: In traditional souks, negotiation is expected and part of the shopping culture. In modern malls and established brand boutiques, prices are usually fixed.
Q: What’s the difference between oud perfume and regular perfume?
A: Oud (agarwood) is a precious resinous wood that produces a deep, complex, long-lasting fragrance. Oud-based perfumes are typically more concentrated and longer-lasting than many Western perfumes.
Conclusion
Local and regional brands in Saudi Arabia offer some of the most authentic, high-quality, and culturally significant shopping experiences you’ll find anywhere. From the exquisite perfumes of Arabian Oud and Abdul Samad Al Qurashi to the premium dates from Bateel, from contemporary regional fashion at Splash to traditional textiles in the souks, these brands represent the best of Arabian commerce and craftsmanship.
When shopping in Riyadh, taking the time to explore and appreciate local and regional brands enriches your experience immeasurably. These aren’t just products; they’re connections to centuries of tradition, culture, and expertise that have been refined and perfected in this part of the world.
Whether you’re a tourist seeking authentic souvenirs, an expat building your life in Saudi Arabia, or a resident looking to support local businesses, the local and regional brands covered in this guide offer exceptional quality, value, and cultural authenticity. They represent the soul of Saudi shopping and deserve a prominent place in your shopping itinerary.
For a complete overview of all shopping options in Riyadh, including both international and local brands, traditional souks and modern malls, be sure to explore our comprehensive Shopping in Riyadh guide.
