HBI Staff | Hyderabad 
The John Keells Group open doors to Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams Sri Lanka, on 15th October 2024, bringing alive the vibrant city of Colombo. Developed at an investment of over USD 1.2 billion by the John Keells Group, this is the largest and most ambitious private investment in the country which will redefine Sri Lanka’s tourism landscape, catering to a diverse clientele creating South Asia’s most dynamic destination for business, leisure, and entertainment.
Cinnamon Life is more than a resort, it is the epicentre of a new lifestyle movement, where modernity, elegance and culture converge in perfect harmony. With sweeping views of the Indian Ocean, Cinnamon Life, encompasses 687 luxurious rooms. Designed by world-renowned architect Cecil Balmond, the resort’s architecture seamlessly blends modernity with cultural elements, creating a visually stunning experience. With multiple entertainment venues, ballrooms, and high-tech event spaces, it can host over 5,000 guests across its unique locations, making it Colombo’s largest event venue. Positioned as a hub for international conferences and large-scale events, Cinnamon Life sets a new standard for luxury and establishes Colombo as a premier global MICE destination.
With a dedicated team of over 1,500 professionals, including 250 chefs, Cinnamon Life promises an extraordinary culinary journey with twelve vibrant restaurants and bars, including 5 specialty restaurants. Guests can enjoy diverse dining options, from a chic French bistro to an American grill, and the most extensive selection of wines at the exclusive wine bar, complemented by a sophisticated two-tier Champagne and cocktail bar. Over the coming few months, Cinnamon Life will continue to elevate its culinary landscape with the opening of more dining experiences. In addition, the resort’s diverse spaces and picturesque settings, make it an ideal location for destination weddings and events right in the City, offering a unique blend of modern elegance and local charm for those seeking unforgettable experiences and celebrations.
While Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams Sri Lanka opens on 15th October 2024, the shopping mall and entertainment areas, including the gaming facility, and the 113-key ultra-luxury ‘Nuwa’ hotel are scheduled to open in mid-2025, marking the final phase of this landmark project.
Krishan Balendra, Chairperson of the John Keells Group, described the project as transformational for the Group and the country. “’City of Dreams Sri Lanka’ is an iconic project that was conceived over a decade ago; a one-of-a-kind venture that will undoubtedly convert Colombo into a preferred destination for leisure and entertainment in the region, offering best in-class lifestyle, shopping and entertainment spaces. The Group is confident that the convergence of all elements in the launch of ‘City of Dreams Sri Lanka’ will unlock its full potential as a transformative development in South Asia and be a catalyst in creating tourism demand, foreign exchange earnings for Sri Lanka and generating employment. The ‘City of Dreams Sri Lanka’ project, once all components are in full operations, is expected to generate over 20,000 direct and indirect employment and community engagement opportunities. This landmark development is part of the Group’s broader strategy to position Sri Lanka as a leader in the regional and global marketplace. By pioneering large-scale projects such as Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams Sri Lanka, John Keells reinforces its commitment to fostering sustainable economic growth.
Strategically located in the heart of Colombo’s evolving urban core, Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams Sri Lanka houses a living gallery of over 1,000 commissioned, museum-grade artworks crafted by renowned Sri Lankan artists. This collection not only reflects the diversity and depth of Sri Lankan art but serves as a testament to celebrating and preserving artistic heritage in a contemporary setting.
As an integral part of its vision, Cinnamon Life Integrated Resort is dedicated to sustainability and community empowerment. The resort aims to continue the success of the Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts portfolio, which has achieved an 86% reduction in single use plastic consumption and prestigious sustainability certifications such as LEED and Travelife Gold by engaging with local artisans and supporting regional businesses. Its commitment to responsible tourism ensures that the island’s natural beauty is preserved, while guests enjoy a luxury experience that honors the environment.
More than just a place to stay, Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams, Sri Lanka, aspires to become Colombo’s pulse, offering a dynamic space for entertainment, art, music, fashion, and culinary exploration. It is set to be a destination where both locals and visitors can experience the finest the city has to offer, with exceptional service as guests are welcomed from the 15th of October onwards.
