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The Albanian Riviera is gaining increasing attention in international tourism markets, while Gulf countries are beginning to see Albania not only as a holiday destination, but also as a new investment opportunity in Europe. International media outlets have recently published detailed articles about the growing interest from Middle Eastern tourists and investors in Albania, also highlighting the promotional efforts of the Albanian ambassador to Kuwait, Ilir Hysa. According to reports, Albania is increasingly being perceived as “the last secret of the Mediterranean,” thanks to its combination of untouched beaches, competitive prices, safety, hospitality, and cultural ties with Arab countries. In his interviews with Kuwaiti media, Ambassador Hysa emphasized that Albania is attracting growing interest from Middle Eastern tourists, especially for the Albanian Riviera, historical cities, and real estate investments. One of the main factors contributing to this growth is the direct air connection between Kuwait and Tirana through Jazeera Airways, which resumed operations following strong demand from Kuwaiti travelers. Ambassador Hysa stated that interest in Albania has increased significantly in recent years and that the country is now viewed as a more authentic and peaceful alternative compared to traditional Mediterranean destinations. Another important element attracting tourists from the Middle East is the fact that Albania is considered a country friendly to Islamic culture. Ambassador Hysa noted that more than 70% of Albania’s population is Muslim and that Gulf tourists feel welcomed because of the cultural proximity, halal food options, and the country’s calm social environment. In another article published by Travel and Tour World, the Albanian Riviera ,from Vlora to Ksamil ,is highlighted as one of the most attractive areas for Gulf tourists. Crystal-clear beaches, luxury resorts under development, privacy, and still-unspoiled nature are among the factors attracting Arab visitors seeking premium experiences at lower costs than destinations such as Greece or Croatia. However, the interest is not limited to tourism alone. Kuwaiti media report that Gulf investors increasingly see Albania as a market with strong potential in the real estate and tourism sectors. Ambassador Hysa stated that Albania’s construction and property market is experiencing strong growth, especially in Tirana and coastal areas, where many projects are sold before completion. He promoted Albania as a country with simple procedures for foreign investors, property ownership opportunities, and fast investment returns. According to published data, Albania welcomed more than 12 million tourists last year, while Tirana International Airport has been ranked among the fastest-growing airports in Europe. Meanwhile, the construction of the new Vlora airport is expected to further increase visitor flows to the south of the country and the Albanian Riviera. The published articles show that Albania is gradually building a new international image: from a little-known destination to a strategic tourism and investment market for tourists and capital from the Middle East. In this process, Ambassador Ilir Hysa is being considered one of the key figures in Albania’s diplomatic and economic promotion in the Gulf region.
