Ajayeb Dubai

First Impressions & Dry Down

Ajayeb Dubai jumps out with a boozy rum and sweet almond blast, pretty similar to Kilian's Black Phantom. The heart brings in a coffee note, and while it aims for that dark chocolate vibe of the original, it's a bit more instant coffee than artisanal roast. I don't really pick up any cyanide. The base gets you a vanilla and sandalwood combo, but it has a slightly synthetic edge, especially as it dries. It's a solid 92% dupe of Black Phantom, the main difference being the quality of ingredients. Black Phantom is smoother, richer, while this has a slight harshness in comparison.

Wear time & Sillage

This stuff performs. Expect around 6-8 hours on skin, and it projects pretty well for the first 2 hours. It leaves a nice scent bubble. It definitely won't disappear on you after a few hours.

The Verdict

If you're after the Black Phantom vibe but don't want to drop serious cash, Ajayeb Dubai is a worthwhile pick-up. It's a good choice for cooler evenings and nights out. I'd rock this at a bar or a casual date. This gets you close enough for everyday wear without the guilt of using a luxury fragrance too often. If you're super sensitive to synthetic smells, sample first. But it's a solid performer that captures the essence of the original.