Bakhoor (بخور) is wooden chips scented in aromatic, fragrant oils. They are burned in a usually ornamental insence burner called a mabkhara (مبخرة).
It is a tradition in many Arab households, used to create a beautiful atmoshphere in the house, to welcome guests and to perfume clothes. When bakhoor burns, the smoke is visible and the air becomes heavily scented in its sweet aroma of myrrh, frankincense, sandalwood, jasmine & other oils.
Mabkhara burning Bakhoor
Ornamental Mabkhara with Bakhoor
Bakhoor is popular all over the Arab World, but perhaps one of the places it is most famous for is the UAE where the most expensive and luxurious oils are found - a special oil called Oud (Agarwood) is burned which is very costly.
Dehn al-3oud (دهن العود)
