The Dubai Diamond Exchange (DDE), a Dubai Multi Commodities Centre ('DMCC') initiative, has announced that registration for the two-day inaugural Dubai Diamond Conference 2013 ('DDC 2013') was closed. The conference has reached its maximum capacity of 500 participants.
Set to be the most significant diamond event of the year, the conference will explore the 'New Silk Route' for diamond trade and will take place from 18-19 March at Almas Tower in Jumeirah Lakes Towers; home to the Dubai Diamond Exchange.
Ahmed Bin Sulayem, the DMCC's Executive Chairman, said: "Dubai is preparing for the next phase in its development as an international logistical and luxury hub. It has not only become a peer to the world's largest and most significant diamond centres, but also a safe, regulated environment for industry participants to trade with confidence.
Suliman Al Othaim, CEO of Suliman Al Othaim Gold & Jewellery Company Ltd., KSA, said:
"As we look to expand our market share in the global diamond industry, we see significant opportunity for growth in our own market. The Middle East's retail diamond industry has seen a considerable rise in prominence, with the number of retail outlets selling diamond jewellery tripling in recent years. We expect this to continue with increased cooperation between African producers and Middle Eastern retailers."
Day One of DDC 2013 will feature leading government officials from the Middle East and Africa discussing the New Silk Route for diamond trade. The second day will not only bring together an international panel of bankers to debate the topic 'Banking in the times of the New Silk Route', but also focus on the trade in luxury goods in the Gulf and Middle East, specifically diamonds and diamond jewellery.
Tatiana Alexandrova, Rough&Polished, Moscow