Colombo Airport Casino Counter Project Canceled Amid Uncertain Future

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The Airport & Aviation Services (Sri Lanka) has canceled the tender for a proposed casino service counter at Colombo’s Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA). The project, which aimed to introduce a gaming service counter within the airport’s immigration area, was initially planned for a three-year term.

According to The Sunday Times, the cancellation was announced through a public notice on February 16, 2025. The notice confirmed that the tender, first invited on January 27, had been withdrawn without providing any specific reason.

This announcement marked the first time the public was officially informed about plans to establish a casino service counter at Colombo Airport. The initiative was expected to provide travelers with an entertainment option while passing through the airport.

Earlier, bids had been invited for the operation of the casino service counter, which would have been situated in the immigration area of the airport. The project was proposed as part of efforts to enhance tourism-related facilities and generate additional revenue for the airport authority.

While the airport project faces uncertainty, Sri Lanka’s broader casino industry continues to expand. The country currently hosts six operational casinos, including Bally’s, Bellagio, Casino Marina, Stardust, Continental Club, and The Ritz Club.

Further expansion is underway, with two significant casino projects set to launch in Colombo. City of Dreams Sri Lanka, a US$1-billion integrated resort developed by Melco Resorts & Entertainment in partnership with John Keells Holdings Plc, is expected to open its casino in the third quarter of 2025. The resort has already opened its non-gaming facilities, positioning itself as Sri Lanka’s first large-scale casino resort.

Additionally, Majestic Pride Casino, a partnership between Golden Island Hospitality Ltd and India-based Majestic Group Hotels and Casinos, is preparing to open at Colombo Lotus Tower. This new establishment is expected to further strengthen Colombo’s appeal as a regional gaming hub.

The cancellation of the airport casino counter project highlights the ongoing complexities surrounding gaming expansion in Sri Lanka. However, the growth of large-scale casino resorts reflects the country’s commitment to boosting tourism and state revenue through regulated gaming ventures.

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