Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner to build $1.4B luxury resort on Sazan Island

Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner are turning history on its head with a $1.4 billion project that aims to transform Albania’s former Soviet weapons base on Sazan Island into a luxurious, eco-conscious resort destination. This ambitious development will be the couple’s first foray into high-end hospitality and comes after they secured preliminary approval from the Albanian government earlier this year.

Sazan Island, once off-limits to the public and used to store chemical weapons during the Cold War, is now poised to become a global magnet for elite travelers. The 1,400-acre island, strategically located at the entrance of the Bay of Vlorë, offers untouched coastline, historical intrigue, and natural beauty. With this investment, Ivanka and Kushner intend to build an ultra-luxury resort that blends top-tier design with ecological sensitivity.

A Family Legacy in Real Estate

Ivanka, 43, and Kushner, 44, both come from real estate dynasties. While Donald Trump made his name developing some of the most recognizable properties in the world, the Kushner family owns a vast portfolio in New York and beyond. Now, the couple is bringing that legacy into the world of resort development, partnering with leading architects and global brands to reimagine Sazan Island as a destination like no other.

Despite the island’s dark military history and the presence of over 3,600 abandoned bunkers and suspected unexploded ordnance, work is underway to clear and secure the land. The Albanian military began efforts in 2020 to safely remove any remaining threats. Ivanka and Kushner’s team is reportedly working closely with authorities to ensure continued safety as development progresses.

Government Support and Global Attention

The Albanian government has openly welcomed the project. Prime Minister Edi Rama described Sazan as a “gift” the country must not ignore, emphasizing that Albania "needs luxury tourism like a desert needs water." Plans are also in motion to construct a new international airport near Vlorë, which would streamline access for tourists and boost regional appeal.

Though the project has received political backing, not everyone is convinced. Critics, including members of Albania’s opposition, have raised concerns about the transparency of the approval process. Some worry about potential conflicts of interest, especially given the Trump family’s ongoing political ties. Others, particularly environmentalists, question the long-term impact of a mega-resort on an island known for its biodiversity.

Preserving Nature Amid Ambition

Although Kushner has not addressed recent reports regarding his proposed tourism project, he told The Guardian in 2024 that their plans would thoughtfully respect Sazan’s natural environment, stating: "When people announce a development, everyone gets scared. Everybody assumes the worst. But once they see the plans we have, the way we’re designing it, the way we’re being faithful and considerate of the environment around us, I think that people will be very, very pleased. And again, with developments, you never make everyone happy."