Sri Lanka Eyes $5B (₱290B) Tourism Boost with Casino Push

Political stability and integrated resorts are key to Sri Lanka’s ambitious tourism goals for 2025, aiming to boost arrivals, revenue, and global destination appeal.

Sri Lanka is setting an ambitious target: to bring in $5 billion (₱290 billion) in tourism revenue by the end of 2025. Branded as the “Tourism Renaissance 2025”, this government-backed effort aims to attract 3 million visitors before the year ends.

As of May 2025, over 900,000 international tourists have already visited the island. Top source markets include India, the United Kingdom, and China—a sign that Sri Lanka’s appeal is bouncing back strongly post-pandemic and post-crisis.

One of the major drivers behind this growth is the government’s support for the casino and integrated resort sector. Projects like City of Dreams Sri Lanka, backed by Melco Resorts, are expected to generate as much as $250 million (₱14.5 billion) annually in gross gaming revenue once fully operational.

Sri Lanka is also moving to issue up to 10 new casino licenses, supported by a new regulatory framework that aims to position the country as a compelling gaming alternative to Macau, Singapore, and Manila.

This progress is built on a foundation of political stability. Following the 2022 economic crisis, Sri Lanka’s current leadership has focused on financial reforms and restoring investor confidence. This has helped attract fresh capital into tourism, infrastructure, and hospitality.

The government is also simplifying visa processes, investing in airport and road upgrades, and promoting sustainable tourism practices to elevate visitor experience.

With gaming, tourism, and infrastructure aligned, Sri Lanka may soon emerge as one of Asia’s most exciting destinations—not just for leisure travelers, but for global gaming investors as well.

Read related article: Casino of City of Dreams Sri Lanka to Open in Q3 2025