UAE to chair UN’s Kimberley Process in 2024

The UAE will formally assume chairmanship of the Kimberley Process in 2024.

This key United Nations initiative is tasked with curbing the entry of conflict diamonds into the rough diamond market.

Executive chairman and CEO of DMCC Ahmed Bin Sulayem has been named chair of the Kimberley Process.

The UAE also chaired the initiative in 2016.

As chair, Sulayem will support and guide the Kimberley Process and 85 member countries. “Our work in the Kimberley Process holds greater significance than ever before. It affects millions of stakeholders, and it is our collective responsibility to contribute to the stability and prosperity of the economies that depend on us year after year. As such, my focus as chair will be very clear: to solidify the Kimberley Process’ ability to operate autonomously and with greater efficiency. I look forward to leading the Kimberley Process into a new era of action – a year of delivery,” he said at the recent 2023 plenary session hosted by the outgoing chair, Zimbabwe.

Sulayem added: “Geopolitical gridlocks cannot be allowed to impede the crucial work of the Kimberley Process. While industry and civil society members are eager to progress, certain governments persist in using the forum to obstruct vital decisions. This ultimately has a negative impact on Africa and the millions of people who depend on it.

“Our collaborative efforts with all the members of the Kimberley Process will commence immediately as we strive to swiftly translate intentions into action, making 2024 a pivotal year. It is our shared responsibility to fulfill the promises of the Kimberley Process. We owe it to Africa.”

UAE and Kimberley Process: key facts

• The UAE emerged as the largest rough diamond trading hub in the world in 2021. In 2022, the UAE’s total rough and polished diamond trade rose 17 per cent year-on-year to reach $37.4bn.
• The UAE was the first Arab country to join the initiative in 2003.
• In 2019, the UAE’s Kimberley Process office was the first in the world to be ISO-certified.
• The country is the largest importer and exporter of diamonds with Kimberley Process certificates
• The UAE issues the second-highest number of certificates globally through its two offices in DMCC’s business district and at Dubai International Airport.