As discussions intensify about potential new investments from Mohamed Alabbar, a prominent investor from the United Arab Emirates, residents of the Podgorica neighborhood of Sadine are presenting a concrete offer. They are willing to sell land for a project that would transform the area into a new high-standard urban development.
Sadine, according to the locals, offer a rare combination of natural environment, traffic connectivity, and expansive private land that has not been ruined by unplanned development—unlike many other areas around the capital. Situated along the main road and close to a future expressway linking the north and south of Montenegro, residents believe Sadine could become a modern urban complex with residential buildings, green spaces, tourist facilities, and business zones.
According to Slavko Boljević, a representative of the landowners, Sadine covers about 140 hectares and is located at a strategic point. He emphasizes the area’s exceptional potential, which has long awaited serious and sustainable development. Boljević notes that locals are not asking for anything impossible, just fair conditions, involvement in the planning process, and a clear vision for the future development.
“We have nothing against serious investors like Mr. Alabbar. On the contrary, we believe this could become an elite zone that benefits both the locals and Podgorica. However, we don’t want to be deceived or ignored. We want local people involved in the talks, to know what’s planned, and how. This land is a legacy from our ancestors, and we want our children to benefit from it,” Boljević says.
In the name of the majority of residents, including Bulatović, Damjanović, and Raičević, Boljević expresses their willingness to negotiate the sale of the land, provided the government creates a clear plan, develops project documentation, and ensures a transparent process. He believes that with adequate cooperation, Sadine could become an example of modern, planned urbanization in the capital, while also respecting the local community.
Boljević adds that most landowners would be happy to offer their land to Alabbar to create an exclusive development.
Sadine encompasses about 140 hectares, with several important locations. Boljević stresses the location’s potential, particularly as a connection between the north and south of Montenegro. He believes the area is perfect for a project that would elevate the entire region, but under a serious urban planning framework. Although the decision ultimately lies with the government, Boljević is eager to help facilitate connections between investors and locals.
“If done properly, this could be a high-end zone and a model for the development of Podgorica. What exactly would be built depends on the investor. We’re ready to develop, but not through coercion. If it’s done right, we’re on board. Many landowners are ready to participate under fair conditions,” he stresses.
Boljević mentions his family owns about 10,000 square meters of land, with additional family members collectively owning up to 20,000 square meters. He points out that his neighbor, Dragiša Bulatović, owns 35,000 square meters, and together with other locals, they control between 60-70% of the land in the area.
Boljević notes that most landowners are open to an agreement.
“It’s important now to create a concrete plan—have the government approach this seriously, present an initial project, involve us in the discussions, define the boundaries, and visualize it digitally. We can’t wait another 30 years. We don’t have time—we’ll pass away, and our children will be left without the benefits of their ancestors’ land,” he concludes.
Boljević claims they are in contact with many landowners, most of whom are open to reaching an agreement. As a representative of the landowners, he is ready to discuss matters on behalf of those who have given him their consent.
