image

Tirana–Durrës Railway: How the Project Could Impact the Real Estate Market and Which Areas May Gain the Most Value

  • svg Information
  • svg

The new railway project by Hekurudha Shqiptare connecting Tirana, Durrës, and Rinas Airport is considered one of the most important infrastructure investments in Albania over the past decade. Beyond transportation, the biggest impact is expected to be felt in the real estate market, especially in areas near stations and newly developing urban corridors.

According to official data, the project rehabilitates the existing Tirana–Durrës railway line and adds a branch connection toward Rinas Airport, featuring electric trains with speeds of up to 120 km/h. Travel time between Tirana and Durrës is expected to be reduced to around 22 minutes, while Tirana–Rinas is expected to take approximately 12 minutes.

What exactly is being built?

The project includes:

  • Rehabilitation of the existing railway line

  • Full electrification of the railway

  • Construction of new stations

  • Extension of the line toward Tirana’s New Boulevard

Stations currently planned or under construction:

  • Tirana

  • Kashar

  • Vorë

  • Sukth

  • Shkozet

  • Durrës

  • Rinas

  • Two new urban stops in Tirana (“Tirana 1” and “Tirana 2”)

According to recent reports, more than 90% of the civil works have already been completed, while full operation of the railway line is expected during 2026–2027.

Areas Expected to Benefit the Most

1. Kashar & New Boulevard

This area is considered one of the biggest beneficiaries of the project.

Main reasons:

  • The new terminal station in Tirana

  • Direct connection to public transportation

  • Proximity to the New Boulevard

  • Intensive residential and mixed-use developments

In international markets, areas near railway stations usually experience:

  • Increased demand

  • Urban densification

  • Rising rental prices

  • Development of multifunctional projects

In Tirana, this could directly impact:

  • Kashar

  • Laprakë

  • The New Boulevard area

  • Don Bosko

  • Eastern Astir

2. Vorë: From Transit Area to Logistics and Residential Hub

Vorë is expected to transform into an important hub due to its connections with:

  • Tirana

  • Durrës

  • Rinas

This strategic position could encourage:

  • Warehousing and logistics

  • Industrial developments

  • Apartments for workers and commuter housing

In many European markets, suburban railway stations have significantly increased property values because of faster access to city centers.

3. Rinas & Domje

The airport segment could create a completely new development corridor.

Areas such as:

  • Domje

  • Valias

  • Rinas

  • Marikaj

could attract investments in:

  • Hotels

  • Office spaces

  • Storage and logistics

  • Short-term residential properties

Direct airport connectivity is considered a strong factor for long-term investment growth.

4. Durrës & Shkozet

In Durrës, the impact could be twofold:

  • Becoming a commuter city for Tirana

  • Increasing property values near railway stations

If the travel time is truly reduced to around 22 minutes, Durrës could increasingly function as:

  • A residential city for people working in Tirana

  • An alternative housing market for families seeking more affordable property prices

Areas that could benefit the most:

  • Shkozet

  • Beach area

  • Entrance of Durrës

  • Areas near the railway station