City of Dreams Sri Lanka, a $1.2 billion integrated resort developed by John Keells Holdings PLC and Melco Resorts & Entertainment, is opening today, Aug. 2. It is set to become South Asia’s first fully integrated resort and the largest private sector investment in Sri Lanka’s luxury lifestyle industry.
The launch completes the final phase of the project, which includes a Melco-operated casino, the ultra-luxury Nüwa hotel, and a premium shopping mall. These additions build on earlier developments, including the 687-room Cinnamon Life hotel that opened in October 2024.
Located in the heart of Colombo, City of Dreams Sri Lanka combines luxury hospitality, high-end retail, immersive entertainment, and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) infrastructure in a single destination.
The full development includes 800 rooms and suites—687 in the Cinnamon Life hotel and 113 in the Nüwa hotel—as well as large-scale facilities for business events and conventions, a casino built to international luxury gaming standards, signature restaurants by internationally acclaimed chefs, and performance venues designed for both global acts and local cultural showcases.
Krishan Balendra, chairperson of John Keells Group, said the completion of the casino and Nüwa hotel fulfills a long-planned vision for Colombo.
“This milestone sets a new benchmark in South Asia for world-class lifestyle, entertainment, and retail offerings,” Balendra said. “With Melco’s globally recognised expertise and exceptional standards, we believe this unique addition will significantly enhance Colombo’s tourism appeal, drive foreign exchange earnings, and create meaningful employment opportunities. City of Dreams Sri Lanka stands as a bold testament to our confidence in Sri Lanka’s future and our continued commitment to nation-building through transformative investments.”
Lawrence Ho, chairman and CEO of Melco Resorts & Entertainment, said the resort is expected to contribute to tourism and economic growth.
“We are thrilled to be part of this landmark development in Sri Lanka and to be in partnership with John Keells,” Ho said. “We believe Sri Lanka has immense potential, and this opportunity complements our existing portfolio of properties. 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.”
City of Dreams Sri Lanka aims to be a major destination for both leisure and business travel in South Asia. The resort has been designed with sustainable practices in mind, incorporating eco-friendly technologies and supporting local art, culture, and community development as part of its long-term vision for responsible tourism.
