Sri Lanka, a new “Macau-in-the-making” for the Indian subcontinent
On August 2, 2025, Sri Lanka’s largest private sector investment in luxury tourism, the US$1.2-billion City of Dreams Sri Lanka, opened its doors in Colombo. The development speared by John Keells Holdings PLC and Melco Resorts & Entertainment Ltd -already present in Macau, Manila and Cyprus- marks Sri Lanka first fully integrated resort. It seeks to position Colombo as a regional hub for upscale travel and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Exhibitions) tourism.
In the crosshairs, is of course India and its huge potential for outbound tourists. Colombo is already linked by air to 11 Indian cities.
The landmark development, combines luxury hotels, a world-class casino, upscale retail, fine dining, and convention facilities.
City of Dreams Sri Lanka features 800 rooms and suites. That includes the 687-room Cinnamon Life hotel, opened in October 2024. As well as Melco’s flagship Nüwa hotel, offering 113 ultra-luxury rooms.
The integrated resort also offers a premium shopping mall, curated dining experiences with internationally renowned chefs, and a world-class casino and entertainment complex. All are in the hands of Melco which guarantees international luxury gaming standards.
The size of the MICE facilities will attract large-scale business events. It can further enhance Colombo’s appeal as a regional business hub.
Will Sri Lanka be the “Macau” of the Indian outbound market?
“The opening of the casino and Nüwa hotel by Melco marks the realization of a key pillar of City of Dreams Sri Lanka. It brings to fruition the integrated development envisioned over a decade ago,” said Krishan Balendra, chairperson of John Keells Holdings, in a statement.
“This milestone sets a new benchmark in South Asia for world-class lifestyle, entertainment, and retail offerings.”
Lawrence Ho, chairman and CEO of Melco Resorts & Entertainment, said the project is expected to act as a catalyst for economic growth in Sri Lanka. “We believe Sri Lanka has immense potential. And this opportunity complements our existing portfolio. City of Dreams Sri Lanka expects to serve as a catalyst for stimulating tourism demand. It promotes economic growth in the country. It also draws inspiration from the successful examples of similar integrated resorts in other jurisdictions,” Ho said.
In addition to boosting international arrivals, the project emphasizes sustainable development. Environmentally friendly technologies and initiatives support local arts, culture, and communities.
City of Dreams Sri Lanka is the latest expansion of Melco’s iconic resort brand. It joins existing properties in Macau, Manila, and Cyprus. The development reflects a strategic move to capture Sri Lanka’s growing tourism potential. It taps into the country’s geographic advantage and rising demand for luxury travel.
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