In this exclusive interview, I had the opportunity to sit down with Artan Dulaku, one of Albania’s most prominent business figures, to discuss his visionary role in the tourism industry. Known for his diverse portfolio through Concord Investment, Dulaku has made a significant impact on the country’s tourism sector with key projects along the Adriatic coast.
Q: Artan, you’ve been involved in various sectors, from media to real estate. What sparked your interest in tourism, and what role do you see it playing in Albania’s economic development?
Artan Dulaku: Tourism is one of Albania’s most promising sectors, and I’ve always seen it as an essential part of our economic future. The country is blessed with natural beauty, from the mountains to the coastline, but until recently, we haven’t capitalized on that potential fully. I recognized that Albania needed high-quality infrastructure and services to compete with other Mediterranean destinations, so I decided to invest in it. This is where projects like the San Pietro complex in Gjiri i Lalzit come in—creating world-class facilities that attract elite tourism and put Albania on the map as a luxury destination.
Q: The San Pietro project has garnered a lot of attention. Could you tell us more about what inspired this investment and what you hope it will achieve?
Artan Dulaku: When we first looked at Gjiri i Lalzit, it was clear that it had everything needed for an elite tourist destination—beautiful beaches, proximity to Tirana, and accessibility for international tourists. But the area lacked the infrastructure and high-end accommodation that would appeal to more affluent travelers. That’s why we invested €88 million to develop San Pietro, including a 5-star hotel and a tourist village.
Q: Tourism seems to be moving towards sustainability and high-value experiences. How are you incorporating these trends into your projects?
Artan Dulaku: Sustainability is essential, not just as a trend but as a necessity for long-term success. For us, it’s about integrating the local culture and environment into the experience while minimizing the ecological footprint. For example, at Melia Durrës, another 5-star hotel we’ve developed, we work closely with Melia Hotels International to ensure that our facilities are environmentally friendly. We also focus on creating value-added experiences—tourists today want more than just beautiful scenery; they want cultural immersion, and we strive to deliver that by working with local communities.
Q: You mentioned the Melia Durrës Hotel, a significant project in partnership with Melia Hotels International. What does this partnership mean for Albania’s tourism landscape?
Artan Dulaku: Partnering with Melia Hotels International was a natural step in elevating Albania’s appeal to international tourists. They bring decades of experience in the global hospitality industry, and their expertise ensures that the Melia Durrës Hotel meets the highest international standards. It’s not just about building a hotel; it’s about creating a hub for luxury tourism that offers more than just accommodation—restaurants, event spaces, wellness facilities, and more. This partnership helps raise Albania’s profile as a serious player in the Mediterranean tourism market.
Q: Looking ahead, what are your hopes for the future of Albanian tourism, and how do you plan to contribute further?
Artan Dulaku: My hope is that Albania becomes a top destination for international tourists. We’ve already seen significant growth in the sector, but there’s so much more potential. I believe that through continued investment in infrastructure and high-end services, Albania can offer a unique blend of luxury, culture, and natural beauty. As for me, I’m always looking for the next opportunity—whether it’s expanding our current projects or starting new ones. Tourism is just one part of what Concord Investment does, but it’s a part that I’m deeply passionate about.
Artan Dulaku’s vision for Albania’s tourism industry is undoubtedly ambitious, but with projects like San Pietro and Melia Durrës, he’s proving that it’s not only achievable but also transformative for the country’s economy. His strategic investments are paving the way for Albania to become a top-tier destination, attracting tourists who seek both luxury and authenticity.
