Partners Combine to Drive Montenegro Tourism

Porto Montenegro, a major tourism development in the Balkan country, has won the strategic support of a major financial backer.

The International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group has committed USD80 million to support the development, on the country’s Adriatic coast. The project is spread across 25 walkable sites, and is combining the sensitive development of residential, retail and hospitality spaces, as well as the region’s most significant marina facilities.

Growing the Visitor Economy

Tourism is a significant economic driver in Montenegro, accounting for more than a quarter of the country’s GDP, and it is reckoned to provide around 22% of the country’s employment. As well as supporting the growth in year-round tourism business, the backing of IFC is also expected to help ensure that development and operations around the project are delivered to meet international standards.

Two major hotels are a part of the Porto Montenegro plan,which is being led by Adriatic Marinas, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Investment Corporation of Dubai. Regent Porto Montenegro, and SIRO Boka Place, presenting the Kerzner International brand, already welcome guests to the destination. The project includes a superyacht marina with 530 berths, and major residential elements that will create a year round community.

“This collaboration with IFC reflects confidence in Montenegro’s long-term potential and in Porto Montenegro’s vision for future growth,” commented the project’s managing director, David Margason. “It will support the next phase of development of Porto Montenegro, helping create economic opportunities, improve infrastructure, and deliver long-term value for local communities.”

Other hot destinations in the country, where international hotel brands are popping up, include Kolasin, in the north of the country close to the Bjelasica Mountains. Here, Accor is preparing to open the 169 room Pullman Kolasin Breza Hotel, with guests enjoying mountain views from their own balconies.

Early spring 2027 will see it joined by the Radisson Blu Hotel & Resort Kolasin, a 188 room, five star hotel. Also opening will be the Crowne Plaza Kolasin, and the 238 room Hotel Montis Mountain Resort.

International Hotel Brands Move In

On the coast north west of Budva, the Lustica Bay development is under way, a major destination that will combine the best elements of marina, hotels and leisure. Brands have yet to be signed, but the project will include the Marina Hotel, with 150 rooms, similar sized Thalasso Hotel, and a 300 room Golf Hotel.

Other brands arriving in the country include Nobu, which will brand a hotel and residences project in Budva. Built on an oceanside plot, the development will feature a Nobu hotel, signature restaurant and private residences. IHG is also bringing its InterContinental brand to the region, planning to open InterContinental Resort Amma Canj at the end of 2026. This new build features a residential element, alongside a fully featured 198 room InterContinental.