A $300 million, members-only luxury doomsday bunker, aptly named “Aerie,” is poised to revolutionize the concept of survival for the ultra-wealthy. Set to open in the summer of 2026, this high-end underground fortress offers a five-star apocalyptic experience for the select few who can afford the $20 million membership fee. With only 625 memberships available, Aerie represents a stark departure from the traditional image of doomsday prepping, replacing austere bunkers and vegetable gardens with AI-powered medical suites, wellness programs, and gourmet dining experiences. Developed by SAFE (Strategically Armored & Fortified Environments), a company known for its innovative security designs, Aerie is envisioned as the first in a network of similar sanctuaries across the United States, catering exclusively to the 1%. This opulent underground haven aims to seamlessly blend unparalleled protection with the highest levels of luxury, offering a unique opportunity for the world’s elite to safeguard their futures against any potential global catastrophe.
The project represents a significant investment, costing $300 million to construct. The exorbitant membership fee reflects the exclusivity and comprehensive nature of the services offered. SAFE’s founder, Al Corbi, and director of medical preparedness, Naomi Corbi, have revealed a tiered membership structure, with the most basic level accessible to a “moderately successful CEO.” The pinnacle of exclusivity is the “Asylum Membership,” an invitation-only tier reserved for an undisclosed group currently being vetted by the company. While the first Aerie bunker is strategically located in Virginia, near Washington, D.C., the company plans to expand to all 50 U.S. states. Al Corbi insists the Virginia location was chosen for its demographics and concentration of wealth, not due to any political motivations, highlighting the area as “ground zero for the finest demographic” for such a facility.
Aerie is designed to be more than just a survival shelter; it aims to function as a “home away from home” for its high-profile clientele, offering refuge during both global crises and more immediate threats. The inspiration for this concept stemmed from a SAFE client who, despite investing heavily in home security, found himself vulnerable during a public event. This incident highlighted the need for a readily accessible sanctuary specifically designed for the unique security needs of the ultra-wealthy. The Corbis describe Aerie as a place where members can maintain their accustomed lifestyle even in the face of unprecedented events, providing not only physical security but also a sense of normalcy and continuity.
Beyond its primary function as a secure haven, Aerie offers a range of amenities designed to cater to the discerning tastes of its members. While emphasizing the importance of security, Al Corbi stresses the bunker’s role as a temporary retreat, a place where members can seek refuge whenever they feel threatened. The facility features state-of-the-art medical facilities equipped with AI-powered technology and robotic medical staff, ensuring access to top-tier healthcare in any scenario. Beyond medical care, Aerie provides wellness programs, gourmet dining experiences, and even an underground swimming pool with simulated panoramic views, ensuring residents maintain their luxurious lifestyle even while sheltering underground. The company emphasizes the exclusivity and high demand for memberships, stating they have already received thousands of requests despite the limited availability.
The specific types of disasters Aerie is designed to protect against range from civil unrest to natural disasters like wildfires. Al Corbi highlights the bunkers’ ability to withstand even extreme events, ensuring the safety of its inhabitants indefinitely. He also acknowledges the confidentiality required by their clientele, refraining from disclosing the names of any high-profile individuals who have utilized SAFE’s services. This sentiment is echoed by Ron Hubbard, CEO of Atlas Survival Shelters, who has built luxury bunkers for celebrities like Kim Kardashian and Mr. Beast. Hubbard predicts that underground bunkers will become a standard feature in high-end homes in the near future.
Inside Aerie, residents can expect a lavish and technologically advanced environment. The bunkers are equipped with SCIF-compliant (Sensitive Compartmented Information Facilities) environments, ensuring utmost privacy and security. Interactive walls, ceilings, and specialized lighting effects create the illusion of above-ground views, compensating for the underground location. Individual suites measure 2,000 square feet, while penthouse suites offer a sprawling 20,000 square feet of living space, incorporating blast-resistant walls and ballistic glass. The “MediShield” medical suites provide comprehensive intensive care with cutting-edge AI technology and robotic medical personnel, promising a level of care comparable to the White House Medical Unit. Wellness amenities include cold plunge centers, IV therapy rooms, and the aforementioned underground pool, all designed to maintain the physical and mental wellbeing of Aerie’s residents.
