In a significant move for South Asian tourism, John Keells Group, in collaboration with Melco Resorts & Entertainment Limited, has announced the launch of ‘City of Dreams Sri Lanka’. This integrated resort, developed with an investment of over USD 1 billion, marks the largest private sector investment in the country’s history, poised to become a cornerstone of Sri Lanka’s tourism sector.
The partnership between John Keells Group and Melco Resorts brings together local expertise and international luxury. Melco, recognized globally for its high-end properties in Macau, the Philippines, and Cyprus, will invest approximately USD 125 million to fit-out and equip the gaming operations within the resort, enhancing the luxury and appeal of the project.
Located in the heart of Colombo, ‘City of Dreams Sri Lanka’ is set to redefine luxury tourism in the region. The resort will feature a 687-key hotel branded under ‘Cinnamon Life’, offering luxurious accommodations and comprehensive banquet facilities capable of hosting large-scale MICE events for up to 5,000 attendees. An additional 113-key ultra-luxury hotel managed by Melco will occupy the top floors, operating under the prestigious ‘Nuwa’ brand.
The resort promises an unmatched entertainment experience with a 500,000 square foot shopping and entertainment complex. This includes state-of-the-art gaming facilities operated by Melco, set to occupy 180,000 square feet of the complex, under a 20-year license granted by the Sri Lankan government. This ambitious project not only aims to attract international tourists but also serve as a dynamic venue for local entertainment and leisure activities.
The economic implications of ‘City of Dreams Sri Lanka’ are substantial. The integrated resort is expected to generate significant foreign exchange earnings and create thousands of jobs, contributing to a robust growth in tourism and related industries. By drawing visitors from around the globe, particularly high-spending tourists from across Asia and the Middle East, the project will significantly boost local businesses and service sectors.
In developing ‘City of Dreams Sri Lanka’, John Keells Group and Melco are committed to respecting and integrating the rich cultural heritage of Sri Lanka with sustainable practices. The design and operation of the resort incorporate environmentally friendly technologies and methodologies, ensuring a responsible and sustainable addition to Sri Lanka’s urban landscape.
Slated to commence operations by mid-2025, ‘City of Dreams Sri Lanka’ is rapidly progressing through its final stages of construction. The resort’s launch is highly anticipated, with promotional activities and collaborations already underway to position it as a top-tier destination in global travel itineraries. As it nears completion, ‘City of Dreams Sri Lanka’ represents not just a significant financial investment, but a bold step forward in positioning Sri Lanka on the global tourism map. With its comprehensive facilities, luxury accommodations, and innovative entertainment options, the integrated resort is set to become a symbol of progress and prosperity for the nation, heralding a new era for tourism in South Asia.
