The Story
Why it exists.
The beginning
Anbar is named for amber, but not the gemstone. The fragrance takes its name from the Arabic anbar, the original word for ambergris: the precious waxy substance sperm whales produce. Dhaher Bin Dhaher designed Anbar in 2013. The fragrance is built around ambergris as a central material, a warm and resinous element that anchors the composition and gives the scent its characteristic depth. Unlike the mineral amber associated with jewelry, this amber speaks to something older and more elemental, a material with maritime origins that lends the fragrance a complex, evolving character as it settles into the skin. The scent opens with bright fruit notes before revealing its true nature as a rich, amber-dominant creation.
In Anbar, ambergris serves as the foundation, working alongside Siam benzoin to create a warm, resinous base. The combination of benzoin with vanilla and tonka bean produces a sweet, lingering quality that stays close to the skin without overwhelming. The top notes feature a fruit-forward composition with apple, orange, plum, and strawberry, creating an initial burst of sweetness that feels vibrant and inviting. As the fragrance develops, cinnamon introduces warmth to the heart, alongside jasmine and carnation, which add floral depth to the spiciness.
The evolution
Anbar opens with fruit-forward notes where plum leads and strawberry follows. Orange adds brightness while the overall fruit composition creates an immediate sensory impression. Within the first hour, cinnamon arrives and reshapes the character of the fragrance, deepening the fruit notes and adding warmth to the composition. The jasmine and carnation appear in the heart, introducing a spiced floral quality that bridges the fruity opening and the richer base. As time passes, the ambergris and benzoin become more pronounced. Vanilla and tonka bean layer in, adding sweetness and depth. Cedar and patchouli provide structure underneath. The fragrance continues to evolve, with the drydown settling into a comfortable warmth that remains present on the skin throughout the wear.
Cultural impact
Anbar draws comparisons to Ambre Narguilé by Hermès and Oajan by Parfums de Marly, fragrances in the niche market known for their amber compositions. The scent is noted for its longevity and its balance of sweetness with warmth, qualities that have made it a reference point for those exploring this fragrance family. Tola's approach offers compositions that stand alongside established niche houses, with Anbar serving as an example of the brand's dedication to amber-forward perfumery. Collectors who appreciate rich, resinous scents have taken note of what the brand brings to this category.
