Colombo is set to witness a historic milestone in its tourism journey with the grand opening of City of Dreams Sri Lanka on August 2, 2025. Positioned as one of the most ambitious and luxurious developments in South Asia, this integrated resort will combine opulence, entertainment, sustainability, and innovation—solidifying Colombo’s position as a world-class tourism destination.
A collaborative project between John Keells Holdings PLC and global hospitality giant Melco Resorts & Entertainment, the resort represents a USD 1.2 billion investment—a bold statement of confidence in Sri Lanka’s potential to become a regional tourism and business hub.
A New Era in Sri Lankan Tourism: The Vision Behind City of Dreams
More than just a hotel, City of Dreams Sri Lanka is a game-changing development designed to bring together high-end leisure, immersive entertainment, luxury retail, and elite business infrastructure under one iconic address. Strategically located in the heart of Colombo, the resort will cater to international tourists, MICE travelers, and high-net-worth individuals from across Asia-Pacific and beyond.
At its core, the development is anchored by two luxury hospitality offerings—the 687-room Cinnamon Life hotel, already operational since October 2024, and the ultra-premium Nüwa Hotel by Melco, with 113 rooms of exceptional design and privacy. Both hotels offer world-class service and amenities that rival the best in Asia, integrating Sri Lankan cultural elements with global luxury standards.
Integrated Lifestyle and Business Hub
The City of Dreams Sri Lanka is designed as an all-in-one luxury ecosystem, housing:
- 800 total rooms across both hotels
- A state-of-the-art casino operated by Melco
- Immersive entertainment venues for live shows, theatre, and cultural events
- Expansive MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) facilities equipped with cutting-edge technology
- A curated luxury retail promenade
- Multiple fine-dining and signature restaurants helmed by global culinary stars
This unique integration of lifestyle, leisure, and business services will allow Colombo to compete directly with iconic destinations like Macau, Singapore, and Dubai—particularly in the MICE and gaming tourism segments.
Gaming Excellence and World-Class Entertainment
A key highlight of the resort is the introduction of a premium casino—managed by Melco and built to international specifications. Featuring a range of table games, electronic slot machines, and VIP gaming rooms, the casino is expected to be a major draw for regional high-end travelers.
The resort’s entertainment component further strengthens its appeal. Purpose-built venues will host global performances, concerts, and theatrical productions, creating an entertainment pipeline never before seen in Sri Lanka.
Shopping, Dining, and Cultural Fusion
City of Dreams Sri Lanka introduces Colombo’s first luxury retail corridor, featuring top-tier international brands, fashion houses, and lifestyle boutiques. This curated shopping destination will serve both resident guests and locals seeking premium retail experiences.
Complementing the shopping experience is a world-class culinary landscape. Guests can explore diverse dining options—from global cuisines curated by award-winning chefs to local delicacies celebrating Sri Lankan flavors. Each dining outlet has been designed to offer a multi-sensory experience, blending atmosphere, authenticity, and excellence.
Sustainability as a Core Pillar
Beyond luxury, City of Dreams Sri Lanka stands out for its strong commitment to sustainable tourism. The resort incorporates:
- Energy-efficient infrastructure
- Water conservation systems
- Waste management programs
- Use of locally sourced materials and ingredients
- Carbon reduction strategies
In partnership with local artisans, architects, and environmental experts, the resort’s design and operation actively support Sri Lankan heritage preservation and environmental stewardship. Community engagement initiatives will empower local businesses, artisans, and cultural practitioners to be part of this global destination.
Economic Upliftment and Employment Impact
According to project estimates, City of Dreams Sri Lanka is expected to create over 20,000 direct and indirect jobs across sectors such as hospitality, event management, entertainment, retail, and logistics. It will become one of the largest private sector employers in Sri Lanka, offering opportunities from entry-level roles to high-skilled positions.
The economic impact extends to foreign exchange earnings, boosted by rising tourism flows, international business delegations, and high-value visitors attracted by the casino, events, and luxury amenities. This development is expected to rejuvenate Sri Lanka’s post-pandemic tourism sector, restoring investor confidence and contributing significantly to the country’s GDP.
A Statement of Confidence in Sri Lanka’s Future
Krishan Balendra, Chairperson of John Keells Holdings, emphasized the long-term vision behind the project:
“City of Dreams Sri Lanka sets a new benchmark in South Asia. With Melco’s expertise and our long-standing commitment to Sri Lanka’s growth, this project is a testament to our belief in the country’s future.”
Echoing this, Lawrence Ho, Chairman and CEO of Melco Resorts & Entertainment, stated:
“We see great potential in Sri Lanka. City of Dreams will not only elevate the tourism sector but also stimulate the economy and create lasting social value.”
The Future of Tourism in South Asia
The grand opening of City of Dreams Sri Lanka in August 2025 is more than a celebratory launch—it signals the arrival of a new era for Colombo and Sri Lanka’s global tourism ambitions. By blending luxury, culture, and sustainability, the development offers a blueprint for future tourism ecosystems across the region.
As Sri Lanka positions itself on the global tourism stage, the City of Dreams will be at the forefront—an iconic symbol of the nation’s transformation, resilience, and limitless potential.
For travelers, investors, and hospitality leaders, Colombo in 2025 is no longer just a destination—it is the destination.
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