In a landmark moment for Sri Lanka’s tourism and hospitality industry, the John Keells Group opened the doors to Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams Sri Lanka on October 15, 2024. With an investment of over USD 1.2 billion, this development stands as the largest and most ambitious private investment in the country, poised to transform Colombo into a premier global destination for business, leisure, and entertainment.
Cinnamon Life is more than just a resort; it represents a bold new vision for Colombo as a hub of modernity, culture, and luxury. Featuring 687 opulent rooms with sweeping views of the Indian Ocean, the property is a testament to cutting-edge design by renowned architect Cecil Balmond, who artfully blends modern aesthetics with local cultural influences. The resort also boasts Colombo’s largest event venue, with state-of-the-art entertainment venues, ballrooms, and event spaces capable of hosting over 5,000 guests – ideal for international conferences and large-scale events, positioning the city as a top MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) destination in South Asia.
Cinnamon Life is set to redefine Sri Lanka’s culinary landscape with its extensive selection of 12 restaurants and bars. From a chic French bistro to an upscale American grill, and a two-tier Champagne and cocktail bar, the resort offers a rich array of dining experiences, curated by a team of over 1,500 professionals, including 250 chefs. The resort’s picturesque locations also make it an attractive choice for destination weddings and exclusive events.
The City of Dreams project is being rolled out in phases. While the resort has now officially opened, the development’s shopping mall, entertainment areas, gaming facility, and the ultra-luxurious 113-key hotel ‘Nuwa’ are slated to open by mid-2025.
Krishan Balendra, Chairperson of John Keells Group, called the project “transformational” for both the group and Sri Lanka. He remarked, “‘City of Dreams Sri Lanka’ is a visionary project conceived over a decade ago. It will transform Colombo into a regional hotspot for leisure, entertainment, and business, offering unparalleled lifestyle, shopping, and entertainment experiences.” Balendra added that once fully operational, the project is expected to create over 20,000 direct and indirect employment opportunities, contributing significantly to Sri Lanka’s economy and tourism sector.
Located in the heart of Colombo’s urban core, Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams Sri Lanka showcases over 1,000 commissioned, museum-grade artworks from celebrated Sri Lankan artists, further emphasizing the country’s cultural richness. This integration of art into the resort’s design reflects a dedication to preserving and celebrating Sri Lanka’s artistic heritage in a contemporary, luxury setting.
Sustainability and community empowerment are integral to the resort’s philosophy. Building on the success of the Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts portfolio – which has reduced single-use plastic by 86% and earned prestigious sustainability certifications like LEED and Travelife Gold – Cinnamon Life remains committed to responsible tourism. The resort partners with local artisans and businesses to support regional economic growth while ensuring that guests experience luxury that respects and preserves the island’s natural beauty.
As Colombo’s newest lifestyle destination, Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams is more than just a place to stay – it aims to become the heartbeat of the city, offering a vibrant space for art, music, fashion, and culinary exploration. This milestone marks the beginning of a new era for Sri Lanka’s tourism sector, positioning Colombo as a must-visit destination for global travelers.
