Marriott International has signed an agreement with Vlora Marina to open a new dual-branded property in Vlore, Albany, that will include a new hotel under the Marriott Hotels brand and Marriott Residences available for private ownership. In addition, the hotel and residences will encompass a marina complex with upward of 400 marina berths, and a promenade with entertainment, gastronomy and retail facilities.
“The introduction of the Marriott Hotel in Vlora marks our second property in Albania after Tirana Marriott Hotel. We are also thrilled to announce the first Marriott Residences in the country, set to be at the same time the first branded apartments concept in Albania. This agreement reinforces the demand we’re seeing for international hotel brands in the region. We are delighted to work with Vlora Marina and strengthen our presence in the country,” said Pankaj Birla, Area Vice President, Eastern Europe, at Marriott International.
The new complex is set to feature Vlora Marriott Hotel with 150 rooms and suites and 160 apartments for sale under the Marriott Residences brand. The hotel's planned facilities include an indoor and outdoor pool, four restaurants and bars, a private beach with a beach bar, a spa, a fitness centre and a modern business and meetings space. The residences are planned to include from one to four bedrooms apartments, with dedicated leisure facilities in addition to access to the hotel’s amenities and services.
“Today, we stand here with our partners from Marriott united in our vision and dedication to making Vlora Marriott Hotel a shining example of hospitality excellence. We strongly believe that Vlora will turn into one of the most important Mediterranean cities and the flagship of the Albanian blue economy. Together with our local and international partners, we are introducing innovative concepts in architecture and urban facilities that will transform the actual area by improving the offering of Vlora as a touristic destination, boosting the local economy and creating more employment opportunities.” – stated Ardiana Sokoli, Vice President Real Estate of BALFIN Group, one of the shareholders and the leading partner of the hotel development for this investment.
The project is planned for completion in late 2025.