DUBAI: A hidden gem of the desert is making waves on the global stage, and it’s coming straight from the heart of .
The AlUla Peregrina Trading Company is getting ready to showcase its peregrina active oil and extracts at in-cosmetics Global — a cosmetics ingredients trade show — in Amsterdam this month.
The AlUla Peregrina Trading Company is getting ready to showcase its peregrina active oil and extracts at in-cosmetics Global — a cosmetics ingredients trade show — in Amsterdam this month. (Supplied)
The story behind APTC’s signature ingredient is as rich as the desert itself. The peregrina tree, native to AlUla, is known for thriving in the harsh Arabian climate. It produces nutrient-rich seeds that have been prized for centuries, and now APTC is giving this ancient treasure a modern twist.
APTC’s chairman and CEO, Abobakar Alanazi, sees the tree as a symbol of resilience and beauty. “It’s a true gem of nature,” he told Arab News. “What makes it exceptional for skin and hair care is the unique composition of its oil and extracts packed with antioxidants, essential fatty acids and bioactive compounds that nourish, protect and rejuvenate skin.”
APTC’s virgin peregrina oil is “light yet deeply nourishing,” he added, “helping to hydrate the skin, improve elasticity, reduce fine lines and boost hair density.”
For Alanazi, the oil “exemplifies the essence of desert heritage and longevity in beauty, blending ancient wisdom with modern skincare innovation for a perfect balance.”
APTC works directly with 159 local farmers, ensuring that every bottle of peregrina oil is traceable from farm to skin. Alanazi also said that 90 percent of APTC’s employees are locals, with 70 percent being women.
“We take pride in establishing peregrina as an asset of AlUla and , focusing on the empowerment of local communities,” he said.
But breaking into the international beauty scene has not been easy. “One of our biggest challenges has been to position the desert of Arabia on the map of the global ingredients market,” Alanazi said.
But APTC has now secured partnerships with international brands, including an exclusive deal with Cartier for the launch of skincare products using winterized peregrina oil. These include three premium cosmetics products: pure oil for the face and hair, a face cream and aromatic oils.
