An integrated resort set to open in Sri Lanka in summer 2025 is being hailed by its developers as “a new benchmark in South Asia for world-class lifestyle, entertainment, and retail offerings.”
Claimed to be the largest private investment in Sri Lanka, City of Dreams, in the heart of Colombo, along the Indian Ocean capital’s waterfront, will offer 800 rooms and suites. Guests have already had a taster at the already-launched luxury, 687-room “Cinnamon Life” branded hotel and 5-star and the 113-room “Nüwa” hotel under Melco’s flagship brand, but the full resort finally opens its doors on 2 August.
“Nation-building through transformative investment”
There will be far more here than somewhere to sleep. The complete USD 1.2 billion mega- venture, led by John Keells Holdings PLC (JKH) and Melco Resorts & Entertainment, will also feature high-end hospitality, upscale retail, immersive entertainment, including a casino with table games, slot machines, and private VIP gaming rooms, as well as cutting-edge MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) accommodation.
Designed by British-Sri-Lankan architect and artist, Cecil Balmond, the complex takes elements from Sri Lankan vernacular like moonstones and guardstones, giving them a fresh, dynamic form, with a cantilever reflecting the shifting Sri Lankan society.
Krishan Balendra, Chairperson of the John Keells Group, said the “milestone” development was part of a “commitment to nation-building through transformative investments.” It would, he added, “significantly enhance Colombo’s tourism appeal, drive foreign exchange earnings, and create meaningful employment opportunities.”
Growth and jobs in an untapped market
Part of that vision is to drive up the standard and popularity of Sri Lankan hospitality by bringing in international know-how when it comes to luxury and gaming. That shift is expected to function as a catalyst for international arrivals from South Asia, particularly in the MICE segment.
The bold claims continue, with the resort complex therefore anticipated to boost economic growth, boost foreign exchange earnings and account for more than 20,000 direct and indirect jobs.
In terms of sustainability, the resort’s initiatives “focus on reducing electricity consumption, promoting energy efficient practices, and implementing comprehensive recycling programs,” according to the Cinnamon Life hotel website. Technology is a part of that. Meanwhile, the responsible tourism box is ticked by community commitments, over 1,000 pieces of local art displayed at the hotel, and involvement in cultural projects.
Recognising the power of the untapped market in Colombo and its would-be transformation, Lawrence Ho, Chairman and CEO of Melco Resorts & Entertainment, said in a statement: “We are thrilled to be part of this landmark development in Sri Lanka and to be in partnership with John Keells. We believe Sri Lanka has immense potential, and this opportunity complements our existing portfolio of properties.”
