I spent the entirety of the plane ride from Delhi to Colombo trying (and failing) to sleep. Even though I usually love catching red-eyes because airports are peaceful at that hour, the exhaustion that follows isn’t always worth it.
As we boarded a mini bus to reach the resort, the scenery flashing by reminded me of Kerala: the same swaying greens and coastal views greeted me with a warm whiff. Soon, the grey façade of the resort loomed into view. One by one, we filtered inside.
At the lobby, we were welcomed with a warm “Ayubowan” (may you live long) and offered chilled towels and refreshing drinks. Check-in was quick, and before long, I was in my room on the 15th floor, already picturing the nap that awaited me.
Just under an hour from Colombo International Airport stands City of Dreams, South Asia’s first integrated resort. Backed by a USD 1.2 billion investment and more than a decade of planning, this development marks Sri Lanka’s bold arrival on the global luxury map.
The property’s quiet charm lies in its soaring, art-filled lobbies and the ever-smiling staff, eager to assist at a moment’s notice. Developed by John Keells Holdings PLC (JKH) in partnership with Melco Resorts & Entertainment (Melco), City of Dreams is about redefining Colombo’s identity. No longer just a gateway city, Colombo is being positioned as a lifestyle and business hub with international pull.
In collaboration with Melco, the resort introduces Sri Lanka’s first truly world-class integrated destination: two luxury hotels, a shopping promenade, 17 signature restaurants and bars, a casino and entertainment zone, retail boutiques, event spaces, residences, and offices. For a nation not previously known for gaming tourism, this move has created a buzz across South Asia.
The grand opening on August 2nd was nothing short of spectacular. Bollywood star Hrithik Roshan made an appearance, joined by Sri Lankan musicians and performers, setting the tone for what City of Dreams represents—a thrilling new chapter for the country.
“This is a defining moment for Sri Lanka,” said Krishan Balendra, Chairperson of the John Keells Group. “City of Dreams is the largest private investment in our history. It is more than a development—it is a catalyst for growth, designed to elevate Sri Lanka’s profile and inspire generations to come.”
Lawrence Ho, Chairman and CEO of Melco Resorts & Entertainment, echoed the sentiment: “Through NÜWA and our entertainment and gaming offerings, we are proud to create a destination that celebrates Sri Lanka’s identity while setting new benchmarks for luxury in South Asia.”
The property takes art seriously, with works by leading Sri Lankan artists including Chathurika Jayani, Jagath Weerasinghe, Firi Rahman, and Priyantha Udagedara adorning its walls.
With the Indian Ocean on one side and Colombo on the other, the design is a study in balance—light, energy, and flow woven into every detail. London-based Balmond Studio, led by James Balmond, was behind the interiors, and the project itself took 12 years to complete.
Meals at the resort were nothing short of memorable. Lunch at Quizine offered a sprawling mix of cuisines. Dinner at Sapphire Dragon was an elegant Cantonese spread—shrimp tacos and a tangy poached egg broth were standouts. At Indiya, hearty North Indian fare provided comfort and familiarity.
At the heart of the complex are two distinct hospitality experiences. Nüwa, with 113 ultra-luxury rooms, is a haven for the ultra-high-net-worth traveller—privacy, bespoke interiors, and intuitive service define the stay. It’s curated luxury at its most discreet.
In contrast, Cinnamon Life, where I stayed, is Sri Lanka’s first five-star city hotel by a local brand. With 687 rooms, it’s a vibrant, design-forward space for global travellers and digital nomads. It buzzes with energy, connectivity, and style and is ideal for those who thrive in the heart of a city. Together, the two properties present a spectrum of luxury, both grounded in excellence. “Colombo is changing, and we are proud to play a part in that transformation,” said Sanjiv Hulugalle, CEO and General Manager of Cinnamon Life.
The two-day trip passed too quickly. I didn’t see much of Colombo itself, but inside City of Dreams, I didn’t feel like I’d missed a thing.
For business travellers: The resort is primed for MICE events with cutting-edge facilities for conferences, exhibitions, and cultural festivals. By night, head to Gatz, a 1920s-inspired bar, or Flux, a rooftop lounge with music and cocktails.
For families and girl groups: The string of high-end retail outlets at the resort, with designer brands for clothing, footwear and perfumes, will satisfy the shopping bug. High-end retail outlets with designer labels for clothing, footwear and perfumes, artisanal Sri Lankan boutiques, and a Dilmah tea store offering tea-champagne and pastries provide ample reasons to shop. A kids’ club keeps the little ones engaged, while Pool+Bar 09 is perfect for some Instagrammable sunset clicks with views of the Indian Ocean.
For couples: The rooftop bar Dreams & Beats, combines an infinity pool, nightlife, and a view worth lingering over. The casino and entertainment zone, operated by Melco would be a fun way to spend the evening, or, if you are feeling up to a sophisticated date night, grab a bite at Bistro des Marées with its romantic skyline views and sumptuous French fare.
Address: no/1 5 Justice Akbar Mawatha, Colombo 00200, Sri Lanka
Tariff: Nüwa starts at INR 11,000 per night plus taxes and Cinnamon Life starts at INR 12,000 per night plus taxes.
