Sri Lanka: City of Dreams to welcome over 400 gamblers for grand opening
Guests to arrive from across Asia as South Asia’s first integrated resort prepares for debut.
Key points:
– Over 400 gamblers expected at launch event
– Majority of guests reportedly from India
– Bollywood actor Hrithik Roshan to attend after Shah Rukh Khan withdrawal
As reported by the Sri Lanka Mirror, the City of Dreams resort in Colombo is preparing to host more than 400 gamblers for its official launch on 2 August. Touted as South Asia’s first integrated resort, the project is a collaboration between Nuwa Hotel and global gaming operator Melco Resorts & Entertainment.
Sources indicate that guests are expected from countries including Thailand, the Philippines and Macau, although Indian nationals are expected to form the bulk of attendees. In addition, around 150 women are reportedly being flown in under the classification of ‘other services’ from regions such as India, Thailand, the Philippines and Hong Kong.
The launch had initially planned to feature Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan. However, his appearance was cancelled, with organisers citing “unforeseen personal reasons.” Reports suggest the actor, a practising Muslim, withdrew due to religious sensitivities over gambling.
Hrithik Roshan has since been announced as the new headliner for the event. Unlike with Khan, organisers have not requested restrictions on live broadcasting of Roshan’s appearance, according to local media sources.
Good to know: The casino resort forms part of Sri Lanka’s efforts to position itself as a regional entertainment and tourism hub amid a broader post-crisis economic recovery push
The launch of City of Dreams marks a significant development in Sri Lanka’s tourism and hospitality landscape, with the country seeking to tap into regional high-roller demand.
The presence of international guests and high-profile performers underlines the scale and ambition of the project.
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