Sazan, Albania – In a dramatic real estate move, Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner have acquired one of the last undeveloped islands in the Mediterranean, setting the stage for a new ultra-luxury resort.
Immediate Impact on Sazan Island
The lush, Jurassic-like landscape of Sazan Island, located off the coast of Albania, is poised to transform into a high-end tourist destination under the Trump family’s vision. Until recently untouched by development, the island is now a focal point for luxury tourism.
Ivanka Trump expressed her enthusiasm on the Lex Fridman podcast in July 2024, stating, “We have this 1,400-acre island in the Mediterranean, and we’re bringing in the best architects and brands. It’s going to be extraordinary.”
Key Details Emerge
Jared Kushner, speaking by phone, described Sazan as a “treasure,” noting plans to create an ideal family resort. However, the island’s current state presents challenges, including landmines and unexploded ordnance from its past as a military fortress.
Sazan Island is strategically positioned between the Adriatic and Ionian Seas, offering breathtaking views and a subtropical climate.
Challenges and Opportunities
Despite its beauty, Sazan is littered with signs warning of unexploded ordnance, remnants of Albania’s communist era. Lieutenant Commander Arbër Celaj, an Albanian navy guide, highlighted the island’s complex history and its potential for luxury tourism.
Background Context
During Albania’s communist period, Sazan was a symbol of isolation, housing a military base with extensive tunnels and bunkers. These structures, now inhabited by wildlife, are set to be integrated into the new development project.
Albania’s Prime Minister Edi Rama emphasized the economic potential of luxury tourism, stating, “We need luxury tourism like a desert needs water.”
Expert Analysis and Regional Implications
Environmentalists express concerns about the impact of large-scale development on Sazan’s unique ecosystem. Olsi Nika, director of EcoAlbania, warned of potential damage to the Karaburun-Sazan maritime national park.
Affinity Partners, Kushner’s company, is collaborating with sustainable development firm Arup to address environmental concerns. Kushner assured that the project would respect the local ecology.
Economic and Political Dimensions
Albania’s rise in travel rankings is attributed to strategic investments and political maneuvers. Kushner’s interest extends beyond Albania to Serbia, where Affinity Partners plans to develop a luxury hotel in Belgrade.
Kushner denied any conflict of interest stemming from his previous government role, stating, “Interest in Serbia and Albania is going up tremendously.”
What Comes Next
Negotiations for the $1.4 billion sale of Sazan were secretive, sparking criticism from Albanian opposition. However, the government defends the deal, citing the need for high-value tourism to compete regionally.
As development plans progress, the island’s future remains a point of contention between economic ambitions and environmental preservation.
The Trump family’s acquisition of Sazan Island represents a significant shift in Mediterranean tourism, promising luxury while navigating the complexities of its storied past.
