Sri Lanka’s vibrant tourism sector is set to receive a significant boost with the introduction of a new gaming establishment, the Majestic Pride Casino. This new venture is the result of a partnership between Sri Lanka’s Golden Island Hospitality Ltd and India-based Majestic Group Hotels and Casinos. The casino will be located in the iconic Colombo Lotus Tower, one of the tallest structures in Asia.
Partnership and Licensing
The collaboration between Golden Island Hospitality and Majestic Group was officially announced on August 1, 2024. The companies have secured a Casino Business License from Sri Lanka’s Finance, Economic Stabilisation, and National Policies Ministry. They also signed an agreement with the Board of Investment of Sri Lanka, marking a significant step towards the realization of the Majestic Pride Casino project.
In a joint statement, the two companies expressed their commitment to transforming the Majestic Pride Casino into a premier destination for tourists. They aim to enhance Sri Lanka’s tourism industry and economy while creating job opportunities for local youth in the gaming and hospitality sectors.
The Colombo Lotus Tower: A Prime Location
The Majestic Pride Casino will be situated within the Colombo Lotus Tower, which stands as the 19th tallest tower in the world and the 11th tallest in Asia. The tower primarily functions as a radio and television broadcasting antenna, serving over 100 stations and telecommunications service providers. Additionally, it houses six floors dedicated to retail and tourism, including a museum, restaurants, a food court, MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) facilities, an observation deck, and luxury hotel rooms.
This strategic location not only provides the casino with a prime spot in Colombo but also integrates it into a broader complex designed to attract both local and international visitors. The tower’s diverse offerings will likely enhance the casino’s appeal as a multifaceted destination.
Expanding Sri Lanka’s Gaming Landscape
The introduction of the Majestic Pride Casino aligns with Sri Lanka’s broader strategy to expand its tourism and gaming sectors. This move follows the State Minister of Tourism’s announcement in November 2022 about plans to open a casino in the Colombo Lotus Tower. An agreement was signed with Singapore’s Kreate Design Pte Limited at that time, aimed at establishing a casino and entertainment area. However, recent announcements have not mentioned Kreate Design’s involvement, leaving some uncertainty about their role.
Previous Developments and Competitors
Sri Lanka’s commitment to expanding its gaming industry is further underscored by Melco Resorts & Entertainment’s recent announcement. Earlier this year, Melco received a 20-year license to operate a casino and hotel rooms at the Cinnamon Life Integrated Resort, a project in partnership with John Keells Holdings PLC. The new casino will be branded as City of Dreams Sri Lanka, indicating a significant investment in the country’s gaming and hospitality infrastructure.
Currently, Sri Lanka has five legal casinos. Of these, three are owned by Dhammika Perera and two by Ravi Wijeratne. The addition of the Majestic Pride Casino is expected to intensify competition and provide new opportunities within the industry.
The launch of the Majestic Pride Casino represents a strategic development for Sri Lanka’s tourism and gaming sectors. By capitalizing on the prime location of the Colombo Lotus Tower and leveraging the expertise of international and local partners, the casino aims to become a major attraction in Colombo. As Sri Lanka continues to invest in its tourism infrastructure, the success of this new casino could set a precedent for future projects and contribute significantly to the nation’s economic growth.
This initiative not only enhances Sri Lanka’s appeal as a tourist destination but also underscores its growing role in the global gaming industry. With its diverse offerings and strategic location, the Majestic Pride Casino is poised to make a substantial impact on Sri Lanka’s tourism landscape.