Sri Lanka drops casino counter plan at Colombo Airport
Sri Lanka’s Airport & Aviation Services has cancelled the tender for a planned casino service counter at Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA). Originally set for three years, the project aimed to introduce a gaming counter in the airport’s immigration area.
A public notice issued on 16 February 2025 confirmed the tender, first invited on 27 January, had been withdrawn. However, no reason was mentioned for the cancellation. It was the first time the public was officially informed about plans to open a casino service counter at Colombo Airport, which was meant to provide an entertainment option for travellers.
Sri Lanka’s growing casino industry
Although the airport project has been cancelled, Sri Lanka’s casino industry continues to expand. The country currently has six operational casinos: Bally’s, Bellagio, Casino Marina, Stardust, Continental Club, and The Ritz Club. Moreover, two major casino projects are under development in Colombo.
City of Dreams Sri Lanka, a $1 billion integrated resort by Melco Resorts & Entertainment and John Keells Holdings, is set to open its casino in the third quarter of 2025. The resort has already launched its non-gaming facilities, making it Sri Lanka’s first large-scale casino resort. Furthermore, Majestic Pride Casino, a joint venture between Golden Island Hospitality and India-based Majestic Group Hotels and Casinos, will be located at Colombo Lotus Tower, further strengthening the city’s status as a regional gaming hub.
New casino regulations
The cancellation of the airport casino counter comes as Sri Lanka introduces new regulations in the gaming sector. The government recently announced tax increases on casinos in its 2025 budget. The budget, presented by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, has doubled the entry fee for locals at licensed casinos from $50 to $100 per person. The levy on gross casino earnings has also increased from 15% to 18%.
These changes are part of efforts to stabilise Sri Lanka’s economy following financial struggles, including a foreign debt default in 2022. While the airport casino counter will not go ahead, the development of large casino resorts suggests the government remains focused on regulated gaming as a way to boost tourism and revenue.
