NAILA RAHIM OF LIGHT OF SAKINA, LUXURY IN THE OLFACTORY SENSE

Naila Rahim spearheads Light of Sakina, a luxury which defines itself as “a Dubai-based luxury scent company with spirituality, sustainability, and giving back at the essence of its soul.” Rahim defines luxury today being one “about meaning, mindfulness, and purpose. It is no longer just about opulence — it’s about craftsmanship, sustainability, and emotional connection. With fragrances, luxury is a sensory journey, where every scent tells a story, evokes emotions, and nurtures the soul.” She goes on refining her idea: “It’s about creating something timeless, intentional, and deeply personal — a scent that becomes a part of one’s lifestyle.”

But how does her customer find luxury with her label? “Our clients seek more than just a fragrance — they seek an experience.” She thinks deeply before continuing, “a Light of Sakina customer is an individual who appreciates heritage, craftsmanship, and purpose-driven brands.” Matter of fact she pursues her thoughts: “Our clients connect with scent as a form of self-expression, self-discovery, and emotional storytelling. Whether through artisanal creations, ethically sourced materials, or immersive rituals, they experience luxury in the details, in the way something is made, and in how it makes them feel.”

Yes, as Gen Z becomes more and more “the consumer” and as they chase experiences rather than possessions, could this be where luxury is heading? Rahim is categorical: “Absolutely.” She continues saying, “luxury is evolving from ownership to experience. Scent is one of the most powerful and immersive experiences, capable of transporting one to memories, emotions, and cultural landscapes.” Light of Sakina has indeed a specific approach to luxury, Rahim goes on explaining, “it is about creating a moment — not just a product. Whether it’s the act of lighting a bakhoor in quiet reflection, selecting a signature scent for a special occasion, or gifting a bespoke fragrance to a loved one, our brand is built on experiential luxury that lingers beyond the physical product.”

Rahim has very quiet, yet also deep approach to luxury, agreeing that “yes. Luxury does not need to be loud; it needs to be felt.” Dismissing a blanket approach to the term she says, “true luxury is deeply personal and meaningful, often existing in subtle details rather than overt displays.” For her, it is clear cut what the term implies, considering she is so invested in the world of the olfactory sense and its meaning and depth, “whether it’s a scent that becomes part of daily rituals or an heirloom piece that carries personal significance, luxury is ultimately about how it makes you feel, not how it is perceived. Our fragrances are not about status — they are about soulful connection.”

Scent of Sakina did not make its reputation out of thin air, on the contrary, “whether its oud lingering in the air, or a scent woven into everyday rituals, luxury is not always about display — it’s about how it makes you feel.”

And what it makes us feel is grateful indeed.