Economic analyst Predrag Zečević called Prime Minister Milojko Spajić’s efforts to bring investor Mohamed Alabar’s project to Ulcinj the most significant developmental move in Montenegro’s modern history. However, many locals in Ulcinj oppose the plan, fearing that foreign investment will lead to the destruction and privatization of their most valuable asset—Velika Plaža.
Mohamed Alabar, founder of Emaar Properties, has agreed to give up five beaches on Velika Plaža in favor of local competitors, showing his commitment to involving Montenegrins in the project. Prime Minister Spajić described the initiative as a “mega project,” with potential investments between 20 to 30 billion euros, and a lease of 99 years.
Zečević believes this project could radically transform Montenegro’s economy, positioning the country as a top global tourist and investment destination. He emphasizes that Alabar’s past projects, like Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall, symbolize modernization and prosperity. He views Velika Plaža as Montenegro’s most valuable underused resource, with potential for luxury, sustainable development that includes international airports, hospitals, resorts, and year-round tourism, creating thousands of jobs and raising local living standards.
He envisions Ulcinj becoming Montenegro’s version of Dubai, with a Mediterranean charm, offering international opportunities. Zečević stresses that the local community’s concerns must be addressed, but such opportunities only arise once in a century, and Montenegro cannot afford to miss this chance.
Despite these potential benefits, local opposition is strong. Ulcinj residents argue that the project threatens the preservation of Velika Plaža and local interests. Ilir Harasani, a member of the Civil Movement URA, claims that this is not about sustainable development but the privatization of Ulcinj’s most valuable part, with no clear plans or technical documentation to support the project. Locals fear that such decisions, made without community involvement, will irreparably alter their town.
