The Doha International Diamond & Gem Conference 2025: A Defining Moment for Qatar’s Luxury and Gemstone Industry
The inaugural Doha International Diamond & Gem Conference has concluded, marking a pivotal moment in Qatar’s journey toward becoming a global epicenter of luxury, trade, and innovation in the diamond and gemstone industry. Held alongside the Doha Jewelry & Watches Exhibition, the conference brought together the most influential voices in the sector, setting the stage for an era of collaboration, sustainability, and market evolution
Opening Address by H.E. Saad Al Kharji
Opening the conference, H.E. Saad Al Kharji, Chairman of Qatar Tourism, underscored Qatar’s enduring legacy as a destination synonymous with refinement and world-class excellence. “Qatar has always been a symbol of luxury, with its exceptional hospitality, advanced infrastructure, and rich cultural heritage. The synergy between this conference and the exhibition reflects our strategic vision to position Qatar as the global hub of luxury,” he stated.
Qatar’s Growing Influence in the Diamond and Gemstone Trade
H.E. Dr. Ahmed Al Sayed, Minister of State for Foreign Trade Affairs, emphasized Qatar’s growing influence in the diamond and gemstone trade, highlighting the nation’s commitment to fostering investment and collaboration. “The State of Qatar is not only honored to be a part of the Kimberley Process but is also eager to contribute on a global scale. Our private sector and government institutions are ready to support and expand this industry, ensuring that Qatar becomes a key player in the trade of high-value diamonds and jewelry.”
Botswana’s Support for Qatar’s Role in Ethical Diamond Trade
In a powerful address, H.E. Bogolo Joy Kenewendo, Minister of Minerals and Energy of Botswana, reflected on Botswana’s partnership with Qatar in advancing ethical diamond trade. “We were proud to support Qatar in the Kimberley Process, and we are delighted to see this nation take the baton forward in championing natural diamonds through this conference. Qatar’s commitment to this industry is evident, and as we gather in this dynamic setting—at the crossroads of innovation and culture—it is clear that this event is not just a conference, but a movement toward meaningful progress.”
Industry Challenges and Opportunities
Echoing these sentiments, Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Executive Chairman of the Dubai Multi Commodities Centre, acknowledged the evolving landscape of the global diamond trade. “The industry faces headwinds, from shifting consumer demand to supply chain disruptions and the rise of lab-grown diamonds. But within these challenges lie opportunities—opportunities for innovation, for market resilience, and, most importantly, for collaboration.”
Qatar’s Emergence as a Force in the Global Diamond Industry
Feriel Zerouki, President of the World Diamond Council (WDC), described Qatar’s emergence as a force in the global diamond industry as both timely and significant. “Since joining the Kimberley Process in 2021, Qatar has been carving its niche, proving its dedication to ethical sourcing and responsible trade. This first conference sets a tone for the future—one that prioritizes unity and transparency in the industry.”
India-Qatar Trade Relations and Growth in the Jewelry Sector
The deep-rooted connections between Qatar and other leading markets were further emphasized by Kirit Bhansali, Vice Chairman of the Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC). “India and Qatar share a rich history, not just in culture but in trade. With over 750,000 Indians calling Qatar home, our nations are linked by deep values of cooperation and mutual respect. This relationship is reflected in the growing trade between our two countries, especially in the high-value jewelry sector.”
Qatar’s Growing Significance in the Global Diamond and Gemstone Trade
Reflecting on the success of the conference, Alex Popov, Chair of the Organizing Committee, reinforced Qatar’s growing significance in the industry. “This conference has demonstrated that Qatar is not just participating in the global diamond and gemstone trade—it is actively shaping its future. The level of engagement, the quality of discussions, and the vision shared here set a new benchmark for collaboration in our industry.”
Key Themes of the Conference
As discussions unfolded over the course of the conference, key themes emerged, reinforcing the importance of collaboration, innovation, and sustainability.
The New Connection: A Platform for Global Partnerships
The theme “The New Connection” proved to be more than a title—it was a lived experience. Industry leaders, traders, and policymakers found new ways to forge partnerships, aligning on strategies to elevate natural diamonds and gemstones in the face of changing consumer expectations. Sessions like “Fostering Collaboration in the Diamond and Gemstone Sectors” highlighted the urgent need for a more integrated supply chain, with experts like Paul Rowley (De Beers) and Yamkela Makupula (SADPO) stressing the importance of breaking down industry silos.
Revolutionizing Category Marketing for Diamonds and Gemstones
The discussion on category marketing revealed a pressing challenge—diamonds and colored gemstones are not marketed as a luxury product in the same way other high-end goods are. In a session moderated by Dr. Frank Müller, speakers like David Kellie (Natural Diamond Council) and Katerina Perez (Jewelry Insider & Brand Consultant) explored how brands must redefine their storytelling to maintain desirability and captivate the next generation of luxury consumers.
Why Qatar? A Strategic Hub for Luxury Trade
The session “Why Qatar?” provided deep insights into the country’s strategic advantages as a hub for luxury trade and investment. Panelists, including Mohammed Abdulsalam Al Emadi, Executive Director of Investment and Incubation at Qatar Development Bank; Miriam Al Malik, Senior Executive; and Abdulla Al Abdulla, Director of Regulations Development and Compliance, highlighted Qatar’s stable monetary environment, pro-business policies, and world-class infrastructure as key enablers for sustainable growth in the diamond and gemstone industry.
Sustainability and Ethical Sourcing: A Focus on ESG
One of the most extraordinary experiences of the conference was the session on ESG and sustainability, held at the Heenat Salma Farm. Against the backdrop of Qatar’s desert landscape, industry leaders discussed the future of ethical sourcing, responsible mining, and social impact. The session was both a leisurely retreat and a profound opportunity to examine sustainability from a fresh perspective, reinforcing that luxury and responsibility must go hand in hand.
Final Reflections: Key Takeaways and the Road Ahead
As the conference came to a close, the final session, “The Morning After,” brought together industry veterans to reflect on the key takeaways. The message was clear—this is just the beginning. From strengthening the diamond and gemstone value chain to redefining marketing strategies and enhancing sustainability efforts, the Doha International Diamond & Gem Conference has set the stage for tangible industry-wide change.
Qatar’s Long-Term Vision for Luxury and Trade
Qatar has proven itself not just as a host, but as an emerging leader in the global diamond and gemstone sector. This inaugural event was a statement—one that signals the country’s long-term vision for luxury, trade, and investment. With new partnerships forged and critical conversations ignited, the Doha International Diamond & Gem Conference 2025 will be remembered as the beginning of a new era—one where Qatar stands firmly at the center of the industry’s future.
