- ABDUL MATEEN DHAMMA Perfumer:
Abdul Mateen Dhamma is a remarkable figure in the world of perfumery. As the founder and CEO of Dhamma Perfumes, he has built an empire that has left an indelible mark on the industry.
Abdul Mateen Dhamma's journey in the UAE began in 1959 when he made his first trip to Dubai on a ship. Selling bananas to co - passengers, he earned Rs 5, a humble start that would set the stage for his future success. His father, Shaikh Mohammed Abdullah Dhamma, came to Dubai in 1902 and established a small watch business, which was bankrupt when Abdul Mateen arrived. Sensing an opportunity in the perfume market, he opened a small perfume shop in Murshid Bazaar in the early 1960s.
In the early days, perfume - making was not as sophisticated as it is today. Abdul Mateen blended essential perfume oils with oud and attar sourced from Bombay to create unique fragrances. With time and experience, he developed a keen sense of smell, an ability to create blends that appealed to a wide range of tastes. Residents and the local population had a preference for oil - based perfumes, especially those with the smell of oudh and attar, which became the base for all his perfume blends and remains so to this day.
Today, Dhamma Perfumes is a multi - million - dirham business with two factories. One, in Al Quoz, spans 25,000 square feet, and the other in Ras Al Khaimah covers 60,000 square feet, both equipped with state - of - the - art manufacturing facilities. The company offers a complete solution, from developing the fragrance to designing, manufacturing, and providing the necessary logistics support. They use advanced processes and adhere to high - quality standards to create their perfumes.
Dhamma Perfumes is not only involved in creating its own brand of perfumes but also specializes in private labelling for multinationals and big brands. They work with key brand names around the world as well as celebrities. Their forte lies in creating fragrances for others, and their revenues come mainly from bulk exports, with Saudi Arabia, India, and Pakistan being some of their largest markets.
Abdul Mateen Dhamma's business acumen and passion for perfumery have not only led to the success of his company but have also influenced three generations of his family, who are now actively involved in the business. His story is one of perseverance, opportunism, and having a "good nose" for business, making him a frontrunner in the UAE's perfumery business.
