Thousands of motorists traveling into or out of Tirana this Saturday are expected to face severe traffic disruptions after Albanian authorities announced extensive road closures to facilitate an event involving American rapper Ye, formerly known as Kanye West.
According to the State Police, several of the capital's busiest roads will be subject to traffic restrictions for up to 17 hours, prompting criticism from residents and business owners who argue that public infrastructure is being sacrificed for a private event.
Major Road Closures Across Tirana
The Tirana Local Police Directorate announced that on July 11, 2026, traffic will be heavily restricted around the Kashar area and the Tirana–Durrës motorway, affecting one of Albania's busiest transport corridors.
The planned restrictions include:
- 7:00 a.m. – Midnight: The secondary road along the Durrës–Tirana motorway, from the Eiffel area to Casa Italia, will be closed in one direction and will operate only for outbound traffic.
- 7:00 a.m. – Midnight: The motorway exit lane at the Casa Italia roundabout will be closed.
- 12:00 p.m. – Midnight: Full closure of the route connecting Casa Italia, Pavarësia Street, and Sokrat Miho Street.
- 12:00 p.m. – Midnight: The section linking Sokrat Miho Street, Kasem Shima Street, and 7 Nëntori Street will operate only for outbound traffic.
Police have also warned that additional temporary restrictions may be imposed between the Institute Bridge and Casa Italia, depending on traffic conditions.
Critics Question Police Priorities
The extensive security measures have sparked criticism on social media and among local observers, who argue that closing major public roads for a private entertainment event places an unfair burden on citizens, commuters, and businesses.
Opponents contend that taxpayers fund the police to ensure public safety and facilitate the free movement of citizens, not to prioritize logistical arrangements for privately organized events. They argue that the scale of the closures effectively paralyzes a significant part of Tirana for most of the day.
Supporters of the security operation, however, may argue that authorities have a responsibility to ensure public safety during high-profile international events that attract large crowds and require enhanced security measures.
The planned restrictions are expected to create significant congestion throughout the capital, particularly for residents commuting between Tirana and Durrës or businesses operating along the affected routes.