Qatar Free Zones Authority (QFZ) has launched the Qatar Diamond Exchange (QDE), a regulated platform for trading rough and polished diamonds and precious stones within the Ras Bufontas Free Zone.
The exchange integrates trading, membership, vaulting, certification, and related industry services within a single regulated platform. The initiative supports Qatar’s economic diversification objectives under Qatar National Vision 2030 and strengthens the country’s role in the international diamond trade.
QDE provides a regulated operating environment with a secure trading floor, private negotiation suites, an institutional-grade vault with biometric access controls, round-the-clock security and surveillance, and on-site customs and certification facilities. The exchange offers companies an integrated location for conducting diamond-related business.
HE Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Faisal Al-Thani CEO – QFZ Chairman – QDE
“The Qatar Diamond Exchange represents an important step in Qatar’s efforts to further diversify its economy and strengthen its position as a trusted participant in global diamond trade. Building on Qatar’s participation in the Kimberley Process since 2021, we have established the regulatory and institutional foundations needed to support the growth of a new strategic sector for the State. Through QDE, we are bringing together the full diamond and precious stones value chain within a single regulated ecosystem spanning trading, storage, vaulting, auctions and tenders, and industry support services.”
Membership is open to companies involved in diamond trading, manufacturing, cutting, and polishing, as well as service providers and industry organizations.
Members will have access to trading licenses, on-site assortment and independent valuation services, secure vault facilities, and specialist insurance.
QFZ emphasized that qualifying businesses operating within the free zone can benefit from 100 percent foreign ownership and 0 percent corporate tax.
The exchange also plans to host a program of rough and polished diamond tenders, connecting producers in Africa and Asia with buyers across Europe and the Gulf.
Qatar became a full participant in the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme in 2021. Under Law No. (15) of 2025, QFZ has been designated as the country’s competent authority for the Kimberley Process, with Qatar’s free zones serving as the only authorized entry and exit points for rough diamonds.
