Montale Arabians Tonka is one of the best-known gourmand-oud fragrances around. Launched in 2019, it has built a cult following for its loud, sweet, spicy character, and it is rarely described as subtle. It is also not cheap: Harrods currently lists the 100ml Eau de Parfum at £132, which is a lot to spend on a scent that divides opinion.
What does Arabians Tonka actually smell like?
- Top notes: saffron and bergamot
- Heart notes: agarwood (oud) and Bulgarian rose
- Base notes: tonka bean, sugar cane, amber, white musk and oakmoss
Fragrantica lists its main accords as sweet, vanilla, amber, oud, warm spicy, rose and musky. Reviewers often describe a sharp saffron opening that settles into a rich, sugary tonka drydown.
Why people look for an Arabians Tonka dupe
Arabians Tonka is powerful, so a little goes a long way, but the upfront price is still high for a fragrance you may not want to wear every day. Many people also hesitate to blind-buy a scent that reviewers call both addictive and cloying. A more affordable alternative lets you explore the sweet oud-and-tonka style without a big commitment.
Introducing Arab T — Insp by Montale Arabians Tonka
Arab T is our own take on the warm, spicy, tonka-led oriental family. It is available from just £14.99 for a 5ml sample, with the 50ml Extrait de Parfum at £44.95, plus 30ml, 15ml and 12ml oil roller options. It suits cooler evenings, nights out and anyone who loves a sweet, amber-and-oud signature. Starting with the sample is an easy way to see if the style suits you.
Being upfront about the comparison
No inspired-by fragrance is an exact clone or replica of the original. Arab T is a different formula made by a different house, so you should expect a similar direction rather than an identical scent. Differences in materials, concentration and development are normal, and we would always encourage you to try the sample first.
Longevity and projection
Warm, sweet and amber-heavy fragrances generally last well and project noticeably, especially in colder weather. Performance varies from person to person and depends on skin type, the amount applied and the weather, so two or three sprays is a sensible starting point.
The verdict
If you like the idea of a bold saffron, oud and tonka scent but not the price tag, Arab T is a low-risk way to try the style. Start with the 5ml sample, then step up to a bigger bottle if you love it.
Shop Arab T — Insp by Montale Arabians Tonka
Enjoyed this guide? Follow us on TikTok at @defragrances26 for a new dupe guide every day, and share this post with a friend who loves fragrance.
Montale and Arabians Tonka are registered trademarks of their respective owner. D&E Fragrances is an independent UK fragrance brand and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by Montale. "Arab T" is our own original composition, inspired by the popular fragrance family that Arabians Tonka helped define.