City of Dreams Sri Lanka to open on Aug 2 in US$1.2 bn tourism push

Sri Lanka will unveil its largest private sector tourism investment to date on August 2, as City of Dreams Sri Lanka is gearing up to officially open its doors, marking a milestone for the island nation’s post-crisis revival push.

Developed through a partnership between John Keells Holdings PLC (JKH) and Hong Kong-listed Melco Resorts & Entertainment Ltd (Melco), the US$ 1.2 billion integrated resort brings South Asia its first luxury gaming-led destination. It combines hospitality, entertainment, MICE infrastructure and high-end retail in a single waterfront location in central Colombo.

Krishan Balendra	Lawrence Ho

The launch will complete the final phase of the landmark project with the opening of a premium shopping mall, a state-of-the-art casino, and the 113-key Nüwa hotel, operated under Melco’s flagship brand.

“The opening of the casino and Nüwa hotel operated by Melco marks the realisation of a key pillar of City of Dreams Sri Lanka, bringing to fruition the integrated development that was envisioned over a decade ago,” said JKH Group Chairperson Krishan Balendra. 

“This milestone sets a new benchmark in South Asia for world-class lifestyle, entertainment, and retail offerings.”

Meanwhile, Melco Chairman and CEO Lawrence Ho said the development fits strategically into the company’s broader global portfolio. 

“We are thrilled to be part of this landmark development in Sri Lanka and to be in partnership with John Keells,” he said. 

“City of Dreams Sri Lanka is expected to serve as a catalyst for stimulating tourism demand and promoting economic growth in Sri Lanka, drawing inspiration from the successful examples set by similar integrated resorts in other jurisdictions.”

Positioned to attract high-spending tourists from India and across the region, the property also places strong emphasis on sustainability and community engagement. It features eco-friendly technologies and initiatives supporting local art and culture.

As City of Dreams expands its iconic brand into a vibrant new market, it capitalises on Sri Lanka’s strategic location and the region’s growing tourism demand. By introducing global expertise in luxury hospitality and gaming, the resort is poised to elevate the standard and appeal of Sri Lanka’s tourism offerings. 

The landmark project sets new benchmarks for luxury, sustainability, and community engagement, redefining the region’s tourism narrative.

Property Highlights

• 800 rooms and suites, comprising of a 687-room luxury hotel branded ‘Cinnamon Life’ which was launched in October 2024, and a 113-room ultra-luxury hotel under Melco’s flagship ‘Nüwa’ brand.
• Expansive MICE facilities designed to host global business events and conventions. 
• State-of-the-art casino and entertainment zone, operated by Melco, to international luxury gaming standards. 
• Curated collection of signature dining experiences involving internationally acclaimed chefs.
• Immersive entertainment spaces for international performances and cultural showcase.