Dubai, 26 January, 2009: Following a successful year which saw it expanding into new territories including Turkey and Italy, the Dubai based International Diamond Laboratories is all set to start operations in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Due to open on Valentine’s Day, it is the first international laboratory to set up a diamond and diamond jewellery grading lab in the country.%% Peter Meeus, Chief Executive Officer of International Diamond Laboratories said: “These are challenging times for the industry but the Middle East is still a growth region and this market is a key focus for us. Opening a new office in KSA is an important step because of the market’s leading position in the region, accounting for 80% of diamond consumption”.%% {{Symbolic Opening :}}$$ “Diamonds are the best gifts to express love and appreciation.Starting our operations on Valentine’s Day are symbolic of the eternal value of diamonds and their tribute to relationships,” he added.%% Peter Borgmans who is the Chief Quality Controller at the International Diamond Laboratories in Dubai will take on the role of General Manager for KSA operations.%%