In a landmark move set to transform South Asia’s tourism landscape, John Keells Holdings PLC (JKH) and Melco Resorts & Entertainment (Melco) have announced the grand opening of City of Dreams Sri Lanka on August 2, 2025. Located in the heart of Colombo, the project represents the largest private sector investment in Sri Lanka’s luxury lifestyle and tourism sector, with a total development value exceeding USD 1.2 billion.
City of Dreams Sri Lanka is South Asia’s first fully-integrated luxury resort, combining world-class hospitality, upscale retail, immersive entertainment, and state-of-the-art MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) infrastructure—all under one roof. The opening marks the completion of the resort’s final components, including an ultra-luxury Nüwa hotel, a premium shopping promenade, and a world-class casino operated by Melco to international gaming standards.
The resort boasts 800 rooms and suites, including the 687-room “Cinnamon Life” hotel launched in October 2024, and the 113-room “Nüwa” luxury hotel under Melco’s flagship brand. Other highlights include expansive MICE facilities for global business events, curated fine dining led by internationally acclaimed chefs, high-end retail outlets, and immersive entertainment venues hosting international performances and cultural showcases.
Positioned to become a tourism catalyst for South Asia, City of Dreams Sri Lanka leverages the island nation’s strategic location and rising appeal among regional travelers. The resort is designed to elevate Sri Lanka’s profile as a premier MICE and luxury tourism destination, with a strong focus on sustainability, cultural engagement, and economic development.
Sustainability is a core pillar of the development, with environmentally conscious technologies and deep integration of local art, culture, and community initiatives, reflecting a commitment to responsible tourism. Once fully operational, the project is expected to generate over 20,000 direct and indirect jobs, significantly boost foreign exchange earnings, and serve as a major contributor to Sri Lanka’s economic revival.
Krishan Balendra, Chairperson of the John Keells Group, remarked, “The opening of the casino and Nüwa hotel operated by Melco marks the realisation of a decade-long vision. City of Dreams Sri Lanka sets a new benchmark in luxury lifestyle, entertainment, and retail. This milestone showcases our belief in Sri Lanka’s future and reinforces our commitment to transformative, nation-building investments.”
Lawrence Ho, Chairman and CEO of Melco Resorts & Entertainment, added, “We are thrilled to partner with John Keells on this historic project. Sri Lanka holds immense potential, and City of Dreams Sri Lanka will stimulate tourism demand and economic growth. Drawing on our experience with integrated resorts in other global markets, we aim to establish Colombo as a must-visit destination in the region.”
