Amari Colombo: A new landmark in Colombo’s commercial district

The much-anticipated opening of Amari Colombo in the heart of the bustling Kollupitiya commercial district marks a significant milestone for the city’s hospitality industry.

Strategically positioned within one of Colombo’s key business hubs, Amari Colombo is poised to become a landmark destination for both business and leisure travellers. 

This addition is a reflection of the ONYX Hospitality Group’s dedication to expanding its presence in Sri Lanka and enhancing the country’s status as a key player in Asia’s tourism sector.

The hotel’s prime location, surrounded by high-rise buildings, luxury retail outlets, historic landmarks and the vibrant nightlife of Colombo 3, makes it ideal for those seeking convenience, elegance, and access to Sri Lanka’s thriving commercial landscape. Amari Colombo offers seamless connectivity to the city’s business centres and cultural attractions, ensuring it becomes a focal point for international and local guests alike.

Economic impact

The opening of Amari Colombo is not only a milestone for Sri Lanka’s tourism industry but also a pivotal development in Colombo’s economy, particularly in the Kollupitiya area. The hotel is expected to make a significant contribution to the city’s growth by creating new employment opportunities in hospitality, administration, and tourism-related services.

Additionally, Amari Colombo’s presence will generate a ripple effect, benefitting small and medium-sized businesses, especially in the banquet, food and beverage, and accommodation sectors. 

By attracting a mix of business and leisure travellers, the hotel will bolster demand for local services, further enhancing economic activity within the city. Amari’s involvement in corporate events, conferences, and intimate gatherings will also attract international businesses, positioning Colombo as a key destination for MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) tourism. This influx of business travellers will have a long-term positive impact on local enterprises and increase the city’s global profile.

The boost in tourism-related infrastructure will enhance Colombo’s attractiveness as a city capable of hosting international events and leisure activities, offering both tourists and investors an array of choices. With a range of dining, accommodation, and leisure services, Amari Colombo is set to strengthen the commercial district’s reputation as a cosmopolitan hub that reflects the energy and cultural diversity of modern Sri Lanka.

Winil Holdings has been instrumental in bringing Amari Colombo to life, providing expertise in precision and attention to detail development and fostering a dynamic synergy between global hospitality standards and local knowledge. This partnership demonstrates how international and local businesses can work together to elevate Sri Lanka’s appeal as a premier travel destination.  

The ONYX Hospitality Group, renowned for its strong presence across Asia, views its collaboration with Winil Holdings as a pivotal step in its expansion strategy within Sri Lanka. This partnership reflects ONYX’s confidence in setting new benchmarks for excellence in the industry, while underscoring its belief in the country’s potential for tourism growth.

Through these partnerships, Amari Colombo stands as a symbol of Sri Lanka’s increasing attractiveness for foreign investment. The hotel’s management is keen to foster additional collaborations with local suppliers and vendors, ensuring that a substantial portion of its operations supports and uplifts local businesses.

Amari Colombo Executive Assistant Manager Indika Jayawardena said: “We are excited to be a part of Colombo’s dynamic commercial district. Our goal is to provide unparalleled service and create memorable experiences for our guests, while also contributing to the local community’s prosperity. As we open our doors, we look forward to welcoming guests from around the world and playing a key role in boosting tourism and economic activity in the area.”

SriLankan Airlines Worldwide Sales and Distribution Head Dimuthu Tennakoon said: “The arrival of Amari Colombo represents a major boost to the Colombo area, further solidifying Colombo’s status as a prime destination for both business and leisure travellers. This landmark development will foster economic growth and open new avenues for local businesses, enhancing the city’s global appeal.” 

Strategic partnerships, such as with SriLankan Airlines, can leverage this potential, streamlining travel and hospitality experiences for visitors. As Tennakoon highlights, Amari Colombo’s presence will not only attract more travellers but also inspire further investments, strengthening the local economy and the tourism sector.

Amari Colombo said it is set to become a cornerstone in Colombo’s commercial district, combining strategic location, the new wave of upper-upscale experiences and economic benefits to shape the future of Sri Lanka’s hospitality landscape.

Following are excerpts of an interview with Amari Colombo Executive Assistant Manager Indika Jayawardena.

Q: Why was Kollupitiya chosen as the location for Amari Colombo?

A: Kollupitiya is a prime location for Amari Colombo due to its status as one of the most vibrant and strategic commercial districts in Colombo. This area is a hub for international and local businesses, and its proximity to key cultural landmarks, shopping malls, embassies, and government offices makes it an ideal location for both business travellers and tourists. Additionally, the district is undergoing rapid development, with high-end retail, entertainment, and residential projects transforming the area into a cosmopolitan hub.

Q: How will Amari Colombo benefit the local economy?

A: The opening of Amari Colombo will create numerous job opportunities across hospitality, administration, and related industries. Many of our team members have already returned from international roles to join us, bringing their expertise and dedication to ensure our success. Furthermore, the hotel will attract both business and leisure travellers, increasing demand for local services such as retail, food, and transportation. This increased footfall will benefit small and medium-sized enterprises and further contribute to the city’s economic growth. In addition, Amari Colombo is expected to host international business conferences and corporate events, thereby increasing business tourism and positioning Colombo as a key destination for MICE tourism. 

Q: What makes Amari Colombo different from other hotels in the area?

A: Amari Colombo offers a unique combination of modern amenities and warm, personalised service rooted in the rich cultural heritage of Sri Lanka. Its strategic location within the Kollupitiya commercial district provides unparalleled access to business and leisure facilities. The hotel’s contemporary design, signature globally acclaimed restaurants, and meeting spaces cater to both international visitors and locals seeking an upscale experience in the heart of Colombo. Furthermore, Amari Colombo’s collaboration with Winil Holdings Ltd. ensures that the hotel seamlessly integrates local values with global standards, delivering exceptional experiences and unparalleled service.

Q: What role does the partnership with Winil Holdings play in the development of Amari Colombo?

A: The partnership with Winil Holdings has been crucial to the successful development of Amari Colombo. Winil Holdings provided local expertise in real estate, helping to ensure the hotel’s construction was aligned with Colombo’s growth as a commercial and tourism hub. This collaboration highlights the importance of international-local partnerships in bringing world-class hospitality brands to Sri Lanka. Together, ONYX Hospitality Group and Winil Holdings have developed a property that blends modernity with tradition, catering to both international and domestic guests.

Q: What type of guests does Amari Colombo aim to attract?

A: Amari Colombo aims to attract a diverse mix of business and leisure travellers. Its prime location in the Kollupitiya commercial district is ideal for business professionals attending conferences, corporate events, and meetings. Simultaneously, the hotel’s modern amenities, comfortable accommodations, and close proximity to Colombo’s cultural, historical, sports arenas and entertainment hotspots make it an attractive option for tourists exploring the city. Amari Colombo also expects to serve a growing segment of MICE tourism (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions), which will further enhance the city’s profile as a business destination.

Q: How does Amari Colombo plan to contribute to the community?

A: Amari Colombo is committed to contributing to the local community by creating jobs, supporting local suppliers, and fostering partnerships with local businesses. The hotel management plans to work closely with local vendors and service providers, ensuring that a substantial portion of its operations supports local enterprises. Additionally, Amari Colombo will be involved in various community outreach programmes, aligning with the corporate social responsibility initiatives of the ONYX Hospitality Group.