Sri Lanka prepares to unveil its biggest tourism and entertainment project to date, as the City of Dreams resort in Colombo launches officially on August 2nd. The integrated casino resort was developed through a partnership between Nuwa Hotel and Melco Resorts & Entertainment. Its high-profile launch ceremony will feature over 400 gamblers from across Asia. 

Positioned as South Asia’s first integrated resort, City of Dreams is a major milestone in Sri Lanka’s efforts to become a premium destination for regional tourism and luxury gaming. The launch will draw guests from key markets including India, Thailand, the Philippines and Macau. However, Indian nationals are set to make up the majority of attendees.

The guest list also includes approximately 150 women arriving under the “other services” category. These individuals are reportedly flying in from India, Thailand, the Philippines, and Hong Kong.

A-List Spotlight Amid a Strategic Tourism Push

Initially, Bollywood icon Shah Rukh Khan was scheduled to headline the event. However, organisers cited personal reasons for his withdrawal. Reports suggest that religious sensitivities around gambling may have influenced the decision, as Khan is a practising Muslim.

Stepping in as the new headline guest is Hrithik Roshan, another major figure in Indian cinema. Unlike his predecessor, local sources claim no restrictions have been placed on the live broadcast of Roshan’s appearance. His participation will draw significant media attention and regional interest.

Strategic Vision for a Post-Crisis Economy

The launch of City of Dreams comes at a time when Sri Lanka is actively pursuing foreign investment and tourism to boost its post-crisis recovery strategy. The integrated resort model aims to attract high-net-worth individuals, boost employment, and enhance the country’s visibility as a leisure and gaming destination.

Beyond its casino operations, the project includes luxury accommodation, fine dining, and entertainment offerings. These features are intended to appeal to high-rollers and a growing class of tourists in Asia.

Melco Resorts brings its expertise in luxury gaming properties, hence the Colombo project mirrors other integrated resorts in places like Macau and Manila. The resort’s positioning will elevate Sri Lanka’s standing in the region’s competitive hospitality and gaming market.

A Regional Turning Point

The City of Dreams launch signals a transformative moment for Sri Lanka’s hospitality sector. By attracting a diverse group of guests and media attention, the project emphasises the country’s ambitions to evolve into a sophisticated tourism and gaming market.

With its mix of international guests and celebrity presence, City of Dreams is poised to become a landmark property in South Asia’s emerging entertainment landscape. As the resort opens its doors, all eyes will be on how they shape the future of regional gaming.