Everything You Need to Know About Cinnamon Life and City of Dreams in Colombo

An Urban Oasis Within a Vertical City

As Sri Lanka repositions itself on the global tourism map, City of Dreams Colombo emerges as a bold statement of luxury as much as a transformative project backed by vision, investment, and innovation. Spearheaded by the John Keells Group and anchored by the legacy of Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts, this $1.3 billion mega-development introduces Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams, South Asia’s largest integrated lifestyle and entertainment resort. Envisioned over a decade ago and designed by acclaimed architect Cecil Balmond, it marks the largest private investment in Sri Lanka, aiming to reimagine Colombo as a global MICE, leisure, and cultural capital. Situated just next to Colombo’s iconic Galle Face, with over 687 rooms, 12+ restaurants, a state-of-the-art convention centre, and upcoming additions like the NUWA hotel, a luxury casino, and a world-class shopping mall, City of Dreams is a destination within a destination.

"We aren't just creating a hotel. We're shaping a lifestyle destination," shared Sanjiv Hulugalle, CEO & General Manager at City of Dreams. "You’ll find a sense of place, of story, of soul, whether it’s through our art installations, curated experiences, or even the way we welcome you with authentic Sri Lankan warmth."

A Stay That Is A Cultural Playground

From fashion pop-ups to music festivals and comedy nights, City of Dreams is redefining what it means to travel for leisure. Their vision is deeply experiential, drawing not only from global luxury standards but also from the vibrancy of Sri Lankan culture.

“We want to be the most loved entertainment and lifestyle hub in South Asia,” Sanjiv said. “Whether you’re here for a quick staycation, a destination wedding, or an immersive holiday, there’s a personal story waiting to unfold.”

And for Indian travellers, that story is being written faster than expected.

India As An Important Market

India stands as the destination’s largest inbound market, driving a significant percentage of footfall across segments including MICE, weddings, leisure, and gaming.

“There’s a shift we’re witnessing,” said Sanjiv. “Corporate India is exploring new luxury destinations beyond Goa, places that combine culture, convenience, and comfort. Colombo, and specifically City of Dreams, fits that bill perfectly.”

The property has already welcomed Indian charter flights, which have brought hundreds of high-net-worth guests specifically for gaming, shopping, and luxury experiences. But the appeal doesn’t stop there.

“We’re building this destination for multi-generational travellers. From families to couples to business groups, so everyone finds their reason to return.”

Wellness, Elevated with Saralis Spa

Adding depth to this layered narrative is Saralis, City of Dreams’ exclusive wellness brand inspired by Sri Lanka’s native Kurundu (cinnamon) and the philosophy of the five elements. A visit to Saralis begins with a personalised elemental assessment, guiding guests toward tailored treatments that reflect their inner energy -  earth, fire, water, air, or metal.

The spa also features advanced wellness therapies, including Vichy showers and quartz crystal beds, bringing global innovation to local tradition. “It’s wellness beyond the body,” Sanjiv explains. “It’s a rediscovery of the self.”

Architectural Artistry and A Decade-Long Dream

Originally envisioned in 2010, the journey of City of Dreams began with a cocktail conversation and a sketch on a napkin. This vision has today evolved into Colombo’s most defining skyline. The inspiration? Think Singapore’s Marina Bay Sands and Sri Lanka's City of Dreams. 

Each corner of the destination tells a story. From curated wine collections at Swine Cloud (boasting over 7,000 bottles, the largest in Sri Lanka) to high-design spaces that evoke a sense of artistic grandeur, the entire experience is a canvas in motion.

The City of Dreams, in its scale and ambition, reflects John Keells Group’s vision of bringing global attention to Colombo’s urban potential, connectivity, and coastal charm. With over 1,000 artworks by Sri Lankan artists and sustainability deeply embedded in its operations, Cinnamon Life represents a commitment to both cultural preservation and economic progress. Once fully complete with the opening of NUWA hotel and retail avenues, this landmark development is expected to generate over 20,000 direct and indirect jobs, further deepening its legacy in the region.

What's Next? Entertainment, Sports and Retail

While the casino and hotels currently anchor the visitor experience, an expansive mall and live entertainment calendar are next in line. From music festivals and comedy gigs to WWE-style productions and golf tournaments (including upcoming Indian amateur leagues), City of Dreams is betting big on sports and lifestyle tourism.

“There’s even been interest from India’s pickleball community wanting to host full camps here,” shared Sanjiv. “We’re planning phase-wise, but our future roadmap is all about integrated lifestyle tourism.”

What Makes City of Dreams Special

“If I had to sum up the City of Dreams,” said Sanjiv, “it’s about finding your own space, whether that’s through music, silence, design, or food. It’s about joy, peace, creativity, and connection. You don’t just stay here, you experience luxury in all forms.”