Best Dupes of Montale Arabians Tonka: Top 5 Alternatives Ranked

Montale Arabians Tonka is a 2019 release that has become a powerhouse in niche perfumery. With saffron and bergamot at the top, a heart of Bulgarian rose and oud, and a base of tonka, sugar, amber, white musk and oakmoss, it is loud, long lasting and very sweet. But at its high price point, not everyone is ready to commit.

The good news? There are excellent dupes and alternatives that capture the same DNA. Here are the Top 5 Arabians Tonka dupes, ranked from 5 down to 1.


5. Zimaya Taraf Black

Why it’s similar: Taraf Black lists saffron and bergamot at the top, rose and sugar in the heart, and tonka, white musk and oakmoss in the base, with agarwood present. That’s a very close pyramid to Arabians Tonka.

How it smells: Expect a sweet saffron rose oud that softens into tonka and amber woods. Reviewers often describe it as an Arabians Tonka clone.

Performance: Good projection at first, smoother tonka amber drydown. Very budget-friendly entry point.


4. Emper Arabian Horse

Why it’s similar: This one mirrors Montale’s structure almost exactly. Top of saffron and bergamot, heart of oud and Bulgarian rose, and a base of tonka, sugar cane, amber, white musk and oakmoss.

How it smells: Sweeter and smoother than Arabians Tonka, easier to wear daily, with the same saffron-rose-oud DNA.

Performance: Solid longevity for the price, though softer projection compared to Montale. A hidden gem for everyday wear.


3. Paris Corner Pendora Noir d’Arabie

Why it’s similar: Marketed as inspired by Arabians Tonka. Shares the saffron citrus opening, rose and oud heart, and sweet amber-tonka base.

How it smells: Syrupy, dense, warm and rosy with clear oud and tonka. Widely described as a clone.

Performance: Strong, attention-grabbing, excellent value for nights out or winter wear.


2. Khadlaj Karus Secret Musk

Why it’s similar: Released in 2024, this one adds red fruits and chocolate to the saffron-rose-tonka structure. Retailers and reviewers call it an Arabians Tonka dupe with a gourmand twist.

How it smells: Sweet, rosy, chocolatey, with oud and tonka in the mix. A richer, more edible take on the DNA.

Performance: Described as beast mode for the price. Thick sweet trail, best for cold weather or evenings.


1. Riiffs Momento

Why it’s similar: Starts with saffron and sugar, a heart of tonka, rose and oud, and a base of amber woods and caramel. Overlaps closely with Arabians Tonka’s saffron-rose-oud core and sweet tonka density.

How it smells: Considered by many reviewers as the closest clone. The drydown is a very similar sweet tonka-amber with rosy oud accents.

Performance: Long-lasting with strong sillage. Great for nights out, cold months, and statement wear.


Quick Reference: Original vs Dupes

Montale Arabians Tonka: saffron, bergamot, rose, oud, tonka, sugar, amber, musk, oakmoss.

Emper Arabian Horse: Nearly identical pyramid with saffron, rose, oud, tonka and sugar cane.

Zimaya Taraf Black: Saffron, bergamot, rose, sugar, oud, tonka, musk, oakmoss.

Paris Corner Noir d’Arabie: Saffron, rose, oud and tonka-driven sweetness.

Khadlaj Karus Secret Musk: Adds chocolate and red fruits, but keeps the saffron-rose-tonka base.

Riiffs Momento: Saffron, rose, oud, tonka, caramel and amber woods. Very close in drydown.


Buying Advice

Closest clone overall: Riiffs Momento.

Most accurate note pyramid: Emper Arabian Horse or Zimaya Taraf Black.

Sweet gourmand twist: Khadlaj Karus Secret Musk.

Strong projection alternative: Paris Corner Noir d’Arabie.

All of these shine best in cold weather, evenings, and dressed-up occasions. If you want something softer for daytime, apply lightly and let the tonka base do the work.

Tip: Always sample first if possible. Skin chemistry and batch variation can change how saffron, rose and tonka balance out.