Al Noble Safeer

How it Smells

Al Noble Safeer goes for the same vibe as Initio's Oud for Happiness. It opens with a bright, slightly spicy bergamot-ginger combo. The licorice is there, adding a sweet, almost medicinal touch. Then the oud comes in. This is where it differs from the original; the oud is a bit sharper and less refined. It's still woody, but with a synthetic edge that's hard to ignore. The dry down leans into vanilla and musk, providing a comfortable sweetness that mellows the initial harshness. I'd say it gets you about 90% of the way to Oud for Happiness.

Conclusion

Safeer is a solid daily wear if you like the Oud for Happiness DNA but can’t justify the Initio price tag. It's a bolder, slightly less nuanced take, but for 1/10th of the cost, it's a no-brainer. Good for cooler weather, and definitely office-appropriate if applied with a light hand. If you are looking for a creamy, smooth oud experience, this isn't it. But if you want a decent performer that captures the essence of the original, pull the trigger.

The Performance Stats

This stuff performs. Seriously. I get a solid 7-8 hours on my skin, projecting moderately for the first 2-3 hours. It definitely leaves a scent trail. Be careful not to overspray, or it could be too much. Two sprays are PLENTY for the work day.