Luxury underground bunkers are quickly becoming the ultimate symbol of exclusivity for high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs). Forget man caves—these high-security, state-of-the-art retreats offer everything from bowling alleys and medical centres to secret passageways and blast-proof doors. While these bunkers are primarily designed for safety, they’re also an opportunity to indulge in ultra-luxurious living beneath the surface.

Custom-designed with unlimited possibilities, these bunkers often feature swimming pools, saunas, art storage rooms, high-tech gyms, and staff quarters, all tailored to meet the most extravagant tastes. One of the largest companies in the industry, Strategically Armored & Fortified Environments (SAFE), has completed projects in excess of $100 million (Dh367 million), creating impenetrable safe havens with advanced technology like biometric entry systems and even water cannons capable of disabling helicopters and drones.

For the ultra-wealthy, safety has always been paramount, and these underground shelters allow for complete peace of mind while maintaining a lavish lifestyle. Prominent figures like Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg are driving the demand, with reports indicating he is building a sprawling 1,400-acre estate on the Hawaiian island of Kauai, which includes a private bunker.

Mainstreaming the Bunker Lifestyle

Interestingly, the appeal of underground bunkers is no longer limited to the ultra-rich. Experts are seeing a growing interest from millionaires who are now seeking security features once reserved for billionaires. As these shelters evolve to meet the needs of the elite, they’ve become more than just a refuge—they’re a statement of status and an essential part of the luxury lifestyle.

Some companies, like Creative Home Engineering, are responding to these shifts by offering high-security camouflaged doors and secret passageways, such as a rotating fireplace that reveals a hidden entrance to an underground shooting range. It’s like something straight out of a James Bond movie.

A New Era of Security, Wellness, and Luxury

For today’s HNWIs, bunkers are no longer just for survival—they’re integrated into a complete lifestyle experience that prioritizes health, wellness, and longevity. Medical suites inside these bunkers rival the finest hospitals, providing everything from general wellness care to intensive care units (ICUs). These facilities ensure that residents can live with both the ultimate security and comfort, no matter what challenges may arise.

The Rise of Community Bunkers

While many still opt for private, personalized underground homes, there’s a growing trend toward shared, larger-scale underground communities. Companies like The Vivos Group are transforming military-grade bunkers into luxurious living spaces that cater to groups of like-minded individuals. These compounds come complete with amenities like pools, gyms, and restaurants, offering a unique off-the-grid lifestyle with a sense of community, all while ensuring privacy and security.

Vivos is also strategically expanding its network of underground shelters, with the goal of housing a select few from around the world. Their facilities are designed to withstand natural disasters, man-made attacks, and extreme temperatures, providing an ideal sanctuary for those concerned about the future.

Built to Withstand the Elements

Underground bunkers offer natural insulation from extreme temperatures, making them ideal for the region's harsh climates, such as the sweltering heat of the Middle East. As the demand for these luxurious shelters grows in the region, industry experts have already constructed survival compounds in places like Saudi Arabia, offering sustainable energy solutions, food production, and military-grade security to the ultra-wealthy and governments alike.