Al Rayhan

Scent Breakdown

Al Rayhan aims for Byredo's Bal d'Afrique, and it gets surprisingly close. The initial blast of citrus and marigold is bright, almost identical. You get that same fizzy, sunshine-in-a-bottle vibe. The violet and jasmine heart is where the paths diverge slightly. Al Rayhan smells a touch more synthetic in this middle stage. It's missing some of the refined creaminess that Bal d'Afrique possesses. The base of vetiver, musk, and amber is smooth and well-blended, a comforting drydown. I'd say it's 94% similar, with the main difference being a slightly less polished floral accord.

Performance Reality Check

Longevity is decent. I get about 5-6 hours on skin, projecting moderately for the first hour, then settling closer. On clothing, it lasts noticeably longer, closer to 8 hours. This is perfectly acceptable performance for a fragrance in this price range. Don't expect beast mode; it's a pleasant, subtle scent bubble.

Final Thoughts

Al Rayhan is a winner. If you love Bal d'Afrique but can't stomach the cost, this is a very respectable alternative. The slightly synthetic edge is forgivable considering the huge price difference. Al Rayhan is perfect for everyday wear. Buy this if you appreciate the Bal d'Afrique DNA but prioritize your budget.