Albanian protests intensify over planned Kushner-linked luxury resort

Albanian authorities have granted preliminary approval for a luxury resort on the Adriatic coast opposite Sazan Island, prompting daily protests outside Prime Minister Edi Rama’s office in Tirana. Demonstrators, many chanting for Rama’s resignation, argue the project threatens a protected coastal area that serves as a winter habitat for hundreds of bird species.

"It started with a national area being closed off to the public and having big lorries and trucks starting to build in a protected area," said protester Eden Hosha, referring to the Zvérnec strip of beach and cliffs.

Environmental groups have filed legal challenges, noting that the land falls under the EU’s Natura 2000 network, which limits intensive development. Lawyer Dorian Matlija said the new Albanian law allowing five-star hotels on the site conflicts with both national and EU regulations and could jeopardize Albania’s EU accession prospects.

Ornithologist Taulant Bino of the Albanian Ornithological Society warned that construction of an access road during the breeding season could harm birds, amphibians and reptiles. He highlighted that the lagoon and nearby salt flats host over 250 identified bird species.

Investors linked to the project include the Qatari Al-Khayyat brothers, whose firm Albania Land Development had its accounts frozen by anti-corruption prosecutors over alleged fraudulent property titles. A spokesperson for Kushner’s Affinity Partners, citing a statement from associate Asher Abehsera, said the investment focuses on "responsible stewardship, environmental enhancement, job creation and long-term value for local communities," and that the firm’s role is limited to personal-capacity investments.

Investigative journalist Lindita Cela described a complex web of shell companies across Albania and the Netherlands that obscure the ultimate owners of the development, comparing the structure to nested Russian matryoshka dolls.

Local resident Albi Batozi, a software engineer, expressed opposition, stating that public land should remain accessible to all Albanians and not be sold to a small elite. The prime minister’s office responded that the government acknowledges public debate and aims to set a benchmark for sustainable Mediterranean development.

The protests underscore broader concerns about balancing foreign investment, environmental protection, and public access to Albania’s coastline.