The much-anticipated City of Dreams Sri Lanka is set to officially open on August 2, 2025, marking a pivotal moment in Sri Lanka’s tourism sector. This $1.2 billion integrated resort, developed through a partnership between John Keells Holdings PLC (JKH) and Melco Resorts & Entertainment, introduces South Asia’s first fully integrated luxury resort and is poised to reshape the region’s tourism landscape.

Luxury, sustainability, and modernity combined:

Strategically located in the heart of Colombo, this groundbreaking development combines world-class hospitality, upscale retail, immersive entertainment, and cutting-edge MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) facilities into one dynamic destination. It is a significant addition to Sri Lanka’s private sector tourism offerings and is expected to drive a surge in both leisure and business tourism, particularly from South Asia.

The City of Dreams Sri Lanka features a unique blend of luxury and sustainability, designed with eco-friendly technologies that embrace the island’s culture and local community. The complex includes 800 rooms and suites, comprising the 687-room Cinnamon Life hotel, which opened in October 2024, and the 113-room ultra-luxury Nüwa hotel, operated by Melco. The Nüwa brand is already established in Melco’s City of Dreams properties in Macau and Manila, reinforcing the global luxury appeal of the resort.

The casino, a central feature of this resort, spans 180,000 square feet and adheres to international luxury gaming standards. Operated by Melco, the casino is complemented by an entertainment zone that will host a variety of performances, both international and local, creating an immersive experience for visitors. The property also offers signature dining experiences curated by renowned chefs, providing guests with an exceptional culinary journey.

Melco’s significant investment and operational expertise are expected to not only elevate the appeal of Sri Lanka’s tourism sector but also stimulate substantial economic growth. The introduction of the casino and Nüwa hotel completes the final components of the integrated resort, which also includes a premium shopping mall, making it a one-stop destination for luxury experiences.

According to Krishan Balendra, Chairperson of the John Keells Group, the launch of the casino and the Nüwa hotel represents the culmination of a vision that began over a decade ago. Balendra expressed confidence that this development will set a new benchmark for South Asia, enhancing Colombo’s tourism appeal and driving foreign exchange earnings while creating employment opportunities.

According to Newswire, Lawrence Ho, Chairman and CEO of Melco Resorts & Entertainment, also shared his excitement about the project, highlighting Sri Lanka’s potential as a prime destination for high-spending tourists, particularly from India and the broader South Asian region. Ho emphasized that City of Dreams Sri Lanka would act as a catalyst for stimulating tourism demand, thereby contributing to the island nation’s post-crisis economic recovery.

With its strategic focus on luxury hospitality, gaming, and entertainment, the resort is poised to significantly boost Sri Lanka’s attractiveness as a global business and leisure destination. The integrated resort’s commitment to sustainability and community engagement further positions it as a model for responsible tourism in the region.

Supporting the local economy and community:

As the resort prepares to open, the development underscores the growing significance of Sri Lanka in the international tourism market. The project has incorporated eco-friendly technologies and initiatives that promote local art, culture, and community development, reflecting a strong commitment to sustainable practices.

The City of Dreams complex is also expected to generate thousands of direct and indirect job opportunities, supporting the local economy. The partners have pledged to prioritize community engagement, ensuring that the resort’s growth aligns with the broader goals of nation-building.

Additionally, the Sri Lankan government has introduced regulatory reforms to ensure the responsible growth of the gaming industry. A new Gambling Regulatory Authority will oversee all forms of gambling, ensuring that the industry operates with transparency and global standards of customer protection and anti-money laundering measures. These reforms, including tax hikes and regulatory updates, are designed to ensure that the sector contributes meaningfully to the country’s economy while maintaining integrity.