A variety of event spaces, including outdoor venues, at Cinnamon Life in Colombo.
The newly opened Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams – Sri Lanka’s latest five-star integrated resort – represents one of the country’s most ambitious hospitality projects: a US$1.2 billion investment that signals confidence in the nation’s tourism and business events future. Located about 45 minutes from Bandaranaike International Airport, the property embodies a vision of a modern, forward-looking Sri Lanka ready to compete on the global stage.
As South Asia’s largest integrated resort, Cinnamon Life is located in Colombo’s central business and tourism zone with close proximity to key attractions and shopping areas. The hotel itself is designed with three separate lobbies and a three-level shopping mall, bringing together business, leisure and lifestyle under one roof.
Comfortable luxury
With 687 rooms and suites – ranging from Premier Life Cityscape and Oceanfront rooms to the more expansive Oceanscape and Skyline suites – the hotel is well prepared for large delegate groups.
I stayed in a Premier Life Cityscape View room and appreciated its practical layout: separate shower and toilet cubicles, generous workspace and excellent lighting, complemented by a wide city view. The king-size bed provided a restful end to the day, and the staff service was consistently warm and efficient.
Premier Life Cityscape View room.Small but thoughtful details – such as daily-restocked NORDAQ glass water bottles, biscuits, and coffee and tea amenities – suggested a good understanding of delegate needs. The NORDAQ system, the first of its kind in Sri Lanka, filters and bottles water on-site in reusable glass containers, supports the resort’s goal of eliminating single-use plastics by 2030.
Other sustainability measures include the use of glass jars, cloth laundry bags and ceramic bathroom dispensers. Rainwater is recycled for garden irrigation, and wastewater is treated through both aerobic and anaerobic facilities before being safely released to replenish nearby natural water bodies.
Meet in style
Cinnamon Life was clearly designed with events in mind. Its 14,865 sqm of meeting and event space spans 11 venues – including five ballrooms and six outdoor areas.
The pillarless Lumina Ballroom – at 1,403 sqm and divisible into three – has already hosted high-profile gatherings such as the Sri Lanka MICE Forum 2025, proving its suitability for large conferences or gala dinners.
The 2,395 sqm Podium offers a direct entry ramp and views of the Indian Ocean and Beira Lake, seating up to 1,300 guests for banquets. The Forum Exhibition Centre provides flexible, exhibition-friendly space, while smaller venues such as the divisible Boardrooms and Studio rooms cater for workshops and mid-size corporate meetings.
On Level 22, the Celestine Ballroom (583 sqm) and Cumulus Ballroom (856 sqm) feature cantilevered designs with panoramic views over Colombo. Equipped with 5G connectivity, LED pillars and configurable ceilings, both venues are well suited for hybrid or live events with visual impact.
Outdoor spaces – including the Infinity Pool Deck and Sky Lounge – can be used for pre-function receptions, networking sessions or evening cocktails.
The Forum offers 6,680 sqm of flexible space with natural light and contemporary design.Culinary versatility and beyond
Dining is another of the resort’s strengths. At Quizine, an all-day restaurant with global live stations and a generous dessert counter, the variety and quality of food stood out. The ability to serve Sri Lankan, Indian, Chinese, Japanese and Western cuisines under one roof makes it well equipped for international events.
In total, the resort features 16 dining concepts – including Cantonese fine dining at Sapphire Dragon and cocktails at Gatz Bar – many of which can be booked for private or networking functions.
Delegates can explore over 1,000 commissioned artworks displayed throughout the property, unwind at the Kurundu Wellness Centre, or make use of the well-equipped gym and infinity pool.
A 14,000-sqm casino complex, operated as a joint venture between John Keells Holdings and Melco Resorts & Entertainment, adds a further entertainment dimension.