In the north of Montenegro, arms are wide open to welcome investors from the United Arab Emirates. The arrival of Mohamed Alabbar has sparked hope among citizens, as well as the mayors of three municipalities, for the revitalization of this part of the country.
After causing a stir in the south, investor Mohamed Alabbar is warmly welcomed in northern Montenegro.
Citizens of Rožaje, with whom we spoke, say that the idea of turning the mountains into attractive tourist destinations has rekindled the lost hope for the development of this area.
In Rožaje, they believe that the future ski resort of Hajla – Štedim is the last chance to keep young people in the area. Therefore, the local government is ready to create the conditions for its development, which, as they emphasize, would boost the entire local economy.
“We are here to assist, but these foreign investors must know what their benefits are and what the benefits are for the local governments and the state of Montenegro,” said Rahman Husović, the Mayor of Rožaje.
Building tourist complexes in Jelovica would create the conditions for sustainable development in Berane and the surrounding region. In support of this vision, the municipality has offered Alabbar’s team a concrete project.
“We are ready for any investment, especially one of such magnitude. We believe this would revive our municipality in terms of economy and business. What we really need is an economic and industrial boom that would create new values and job opportunities,” said Đole Lutovac, the Mayor of Berane.
The municipality of Plav also believes in successful cooperation with investors from the United Arab Emirates. They have proposed a project they claim has real chances of quick implementation.
“We have nominated Mount Bogićevica, which already has a fully developed planning document, studies detailing its skiing potential, as well as the potential for mountain tourism. We believe any investor who wants to respect Montenegro’s plans, laws, strategies, and the interests of the local population is welcome in Plav,” said Nihad Canović, the Mayor of Plav.
Similar messages are coming from other northern municipalities. The common stance is that the north has been unjustly neglected for decades and it is high time to harness its tourism potential. Otherwise, the trend of emigration will continue, and at some point, the state will be unable to stop it.
