News Article Marriott International signs new hotel in Vlorë, Albania
by Property Forum | Hotel

Marriott International has signed an agreement with Vlora Marina to open a new dual-branded property comprising a new hotel under the Marriott Hotels brand and Marriott Residences available for private ownership. Situated in the coastal city of Vlorë, the new build property will benefit from a prime waterfront location in the heart of the city as well as being a part of Vlora Marina investment. The new build complex is expected to debut in 2028 


“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, Marriott International.

Catering to both business and leisure travellers, the new complex is set to feature Vlora Marriott Hotel with 150 rooms and suites as well as 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 brand’s signature Greatroom lobby will provide a social hub for guests and local residents from day to night. The residences are planned to include from one to four bedrooms apartments, with dedicated residents' leisure facilities in addition to access to the hotel’s amenities and services. 

“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.