Bakhoor is a type of incense, but calling it just “incense” undersells a specific, distinct tradition.

What sets bakhoor apart

  • Form — bakhoor is typically wood chips or compressed blocks burned on charcoal or heat, rather than the bound sticks or cones common in other incense traditions.
  • Base material — bakhoor is built on wood (often agarwood or a wood base soaked in fragrance oil), giving it a characteristically deep, woody-resinous quality distinct from resin-only or herb-based incense.
  • Cultural context — bakhoor carries specific associations with Arabian hospitality, celebration and the oud tradition, rather than being a general-purpose incense category.

Similarities

Like any incense, bakhoor works by releasing fragrance through combustion or gentle heating, and both traditions share the basic purpose of scenting a space and marking an occasion or ritual.

Frequently asked questions

Can you use bakhoor and incense sticks interchangeably?

Not really — they need different equipment (a burner and charcoal or heat source for bakhoor, versus a simple holder for sticks) and produce a different style and intensity of fragrance.

Continue reading: What Is Bakhoor? · How to Use a Bakhoor Burner

Discover the difference for yourself — shop Bakhoor (Incense).