DiCaprio’s $100M Israeli Riviera Dream: Luxury Eco-Hotel Approved in Herzliya
Leonardo DiCaprio and Hagag Group’s luxury hotel project in Herzliya Marina, approved for 365 rooms and LEED certification, marks a significant eco-friendly development. The expanded project, rooted in DiCaprio’s environmental vision, aims to transform Israel’s coastal “Riviera” into a global luxury hub.
The Tel Aviv District Planning and Building Committee granted final approval for a sprawling luxury hotel project at Herzliya Marina, a collaboration between Israeli real estate giant Hagag Group and Hollywood star Leonardo DiCaprio, who holds a 10% stake alongside Hagag Group and brothers Ahikam and Lior Cohen. Initially announced in March 2018 with plans for 180 suites across two six-story buildings, the project has expanded dramatically to 51,000 square meters, 14 floors, and 365 rooms, up from the original 10,000 square meters. The approval also includes 8,000 square meters of underground space for parking and operations, designed by Ranni Ziss Architects, replacing the previously named David Rockwell.
DiCaprio’s environmental activism has been a driving force, with the hotel set to meet U.S. Green Building Council standards and achieve LEED certification, positioning it as one of Israel’s most sustainable hospitality ventures. In 2018, DiCaprio stated, “Green environmental development is a significant part of building communities that work in partnership with nature and not against it. As we seek to create a future that heads off the most severe effects of climate change, we need projects that push for new developments in environmental design.” The Hagag Group, led by brothers Tzachi and Ido Hagag, secured the land for 78 million shekels ($23 million) between 2015 and 2017 from Azorim and Kendal companies. The hotel, located in the elite Herzliya Marina, dubbed the “Israeli Riviera,” will feature a central pool, conference center, upscale restaurant, retail spaces, and direct yacht access.
DiCaprio’s ties to Israel extend beyond this project, rooted in his 2005–2011 relationship with supermodel Bar Refaeli, which brought him to the country multiple times. His investments include the now-defunct Mobli, a social media startup, and Aleph Farms, a cultivated meat company aligned with his environmental advocacy. Construction timelines remain undisclosed, but the project is expected to elevate Herzliya’s status as a global luxury destination. Social media posts on X celebrated the approval, with one user noting, “DiCaprio’s eco-hotel in Herzliya is a game-changer for Israel’s coast!”