Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner are moving forward with a massive $1.4 billion project to convert an abandoned Soviet weapons site into a high-end island resort. The Albanian island of Sazan, one of the Mediterranean’s last untouched islands, is the focal point of this bold redevelopment effort. Ivanka, 43, and Kushner, 44, recently completed work on their new family home in Miami and are now directing their efforts toward European real estate which has seen growth over recent years.
From Government Approval to Development Challenges
In January, their plans received preliminary approval from the Albanian government, as reported by the New York Times. This milestone came just weeks after Ivanka’s father, Donald Trump, won reelection and days before his second-term inauguration. The project is one of several linked to members of the Trump family and international governments that the former president may become involved with while in office. Both Kushner and Albanian officials maintain that the approval process was handled independently and not influenced by political connections.
Local Buzz and Real Estate Legacy
Even before official approval, speculation among locals began to swirl. The island is now being referred to as “Ishulli i Trumpëve,” or “Trump Island.” Ivanka and Kushner both hail from real estate dynasties—Trump from his father’s New York empire and Kushner from a family that owns substantial residential, commercial, and retail holdings in New York. However, this venture marks their first foray into luxury hospitality.
Environmental and Safety Concerns
Their first challenge lies in dealing with the island’s grim past. Once a Soviet chemical weapons facility, Sazan still bears hazardous remnants. Italian journalist Marzio Mian described signs warning of landmines and dangerous ordnance. In 2020, the Albanian government dispatched military personnel to begin clearing the area, and work continues in partnership with Ivanka and Kushner’s team to ensure the site is safe for future visitors.
Architectural Vision and Historical Integration
The island contains thousands of decaying military structures, including 3,600 abandoned bunkers. Rather than demolish them all, Ivanka shared in a 2024 podcast that the couple plans to incorporate select buildings into the resort’s design, working alongside top architects and brands to create an “extraordinary” destination.
Sazan’s Appeal and Government Support
Though long off-limits to the public, Sazan’s stunning beaches began attracting visitors in 2017 when it was partially reopened. According to Lonely Planet, the island is accessible via ferries from Vlore, a rising luxury tourism hub. The Albanian government is also developing an airport near Vlore, which would ease travel for affluent guests heading to the resort.
Mixed Reactions to the Project
While Albanian President Edi Rama has openly supported the initiative, calling Sazan a “gift” that must be developed, others are skeptical. Opposition figure Agron Shehaj criticized the project’s lack of transparency, suggesting it may serve political interests. Tour guide Arben Kola voiced concern for the island’s ecosystem, arguing that existing tourism practices help preserve nature and shouldn’t be altered recklessly.
Assurances and Uncertain Timeline
Kushner has emphasized that their plans prioritize environmental preservation. In 2024, he told The Guardian that while development projects often face backlash, their team is designing with care and believes the final vision will be widely embraced. Despite preliminary approval, there’s no confirmed start date. The Albanian government retains the authority to rescind its decision pending further discussions.
