Middle East-China Diamond & Jewellery Summit conferred Lifetime Achievement Award to late Damas founder

The conference was organised by Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) recently at the Atlantis Hotel, Palm Jumeirah.

The distinguished award was received by Taher Abdullah's three sons - Tawfiq, Tawhid and Tamjid Abdullah.

Seven distinguished individuals were recognised during the conference for their outstanding contributions to the growth of diamond and jewellery trade in the emerging markets of the world.

Guests at the evening included public and private-sector leaders and high-profile members of the global diamond trade.

On receiving the award, Mr Taher Abdullah's eldest son, Tawfiq Abdullah, Chairman of Damas, said:

"We are extremely pleased to receive this award on behalf of our father whose passion, knowledge and expertise in the jewellery sector has inspired many. The award recognises and celebrates singular contributions of outstanding individuals whose pioneering spirit and inventiveness steered Damas to great success. His penetratingly insightful decisions, combined with long term vision, led Damas to become a global company that it is today."

Tawfiq said their father always demanded a better standard from them to promote the jewellery sector in the Middle East and selflessly shared his time and counsel to ensure venue to the Damas brand.

His efforts have been instrumental in the birth, growth, and continuing success of the organisation. Tawfiq enthused: "He was always there to lend support, to offer a bit of wisdom, and to be the person that cared for all the stakeholders of the company. All those who knew him, miss his presence greatly especially his generous spirit."

Damas is an international integrated jewellery and watch retailer operating in 18 countries, with over 467 stores.

The group's stores offer its own branded products as well as products sold under leading global and regional luxury brands.

Damas International Limited is listed on the Dubai International Financial Exchange and its shares are traded under the ticker 'DAMAS'.

Other industry experts honoured with the awards included Vincent Chow, Group General Manager, Chow Sang Sang; Imam Altinbas, Founder, Altinbas; Robert Mouwad, Founder, Mouwad; Jamal Farsi, Founder, Farsi Jewellery; Roberto Coin, Founder, Roberto Coin; and Pankaj Mehta, Founder, Dimexon Group.