As Sri Lanka looks to cement its place on the global MICE map, Cinnamon Life stands at the forefront of this transformation. Positioned as the country’s first fully integrated lifestyle destination, the property blends luxury hospitality, state-of-the-art event infrastructure, and curated experiences into a seamless offering. In this exclusive Q&A, Padmi Fernando, Director Sales & Marketing at Cinnamon Life, shares insights into how the landmark development is poised to elevate Colombo’s appeal as a regional hub for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions while also catering to the discerning Middle Eastern traveler.
Q: Cinnamon Life is positioned as a premier integrated development in Sri Lanka. What makes it a game-changer for MICE tourism in the region?
As Sri Lanka’s first fully integrated lifestyle destination, Cinnamon Life isn’t just a venue it’s a statement. We offer an unmatched combination of luxury hospitality, world-class event infrastructure, premium retail, and entertainment all within a single footprint in the heart of Colombo. This kind of scale and sophistication is unprecedented in the region. What sets us apart is our ability to host global conferences, luxury incentive programs, and curated corporate experiences all with seamless connectivity and exceptional service, making Cinnamon Life a definitive game-changer for Southeast Asia’s MICE landscape.
Q: With Sri Lanka looking to strengthen its MICE offerings, how does Cinnamon Life’s state-of-the-art banquet and meeting facilities cater to the evolving needs of global business events?
Our event spaces have been meticulously designed to accommodate the dynamic expectations of today’s global event planners. From intimate board meetings to grand international forums, our venues are outfitted with cutting-edge technology, customizable layouts, and a design aesthetic that reflects understated luxury. What’s more, every detail from F&B to lighting can be tailored, ensuring each event feels exclusive and elevated. We offer more than just functionality we deliver a sense of occasion.
Q: What are some of the large-scale international conferences and corporate events Cinnamon Life has hosted or is set to host? How do you see this shaping Sri Lanka’s reputation as a MICE destination?
We’re proud to be the chosen venue for several high-calibre regional summits, luxury incentive movements, and industry showcases with more on the horizon. These are not just events; they’re milestones for the country’s positioning. Each gathering hosted at Cinnamon Life sends a powerful message: that Sri Lanka is ready to take its place as a sophisticated, globally relevant MICE destination. We’re seeing Colombo gain traction not just as a gateway, but as a destination in its own right.
Q : Beyond facilities, what unique experiences does Cinnamon Life offer to MICE travelers in terms of business-leisure integration, incentive programs, and networking opportunities?
At Cinnamon Life, we’re curating more than conferences we’re crafting experiences. Our guests can go from a morning seminar to a sunset cruise in the Indian ocean, or from a boardroom to an authentic spa journey within minutes. We collaborate with Sri Lanka’s top curators and experience designers to deliver one-of-a-kind incentive programs whether that’s an architectural trail of Geoffrey Bawa’s works, a canvas cruise within the hotels multiple floors, or a curated culinary showcase.
Q: How does Cinnamon Life collaborate with industry stakeholders, including the Sri Lanka Convention Bureau and international event organizers, to position Colombo as a MICE hub?
Collaboration is at the heart of our strategy. We work closely with the Sri Lanka Convention Bureau, key DMCs, and global MICE planners to offer curated, end-to-end solutions. From joint bids and incentive packages to international roadshows and hosted buyer programs, we ensure Colombo is on the global radar. Cinnamon Life plays the role of both host and ambassador actively shaping the narrative around Sri Lanka as a premium MICE destination.
Middle East Market Focus
Q: The Middle East is a high-value source market for Sri Lanka. How does Cinnamon Life cater to Middle Eastern travelers, particularly in terms of luxury, privacy, and cultural preferences?
The Middle East is a discerning market, and we have curated our offering to reflect that. At Cinnamon Life, luxury is layered with personalization from our opulent suites and floating cantilever ballrooms to exclusive concierge services and discreet butler offerings. We understand the importance of privacy, family-friendly spaces, and cultural sensitivities. Whether it’s Arabic-speaking staff, prayer facilities, or tailored in-room dining, we ensure Middle Eastern guests feel both understood and indulged.
Q: With a myriad of specialty restaurants and premium hospitality services, how do you tailor the culinary experiences to meet the expectations of Middle Eastern visitors?
Cuisine is a central part of the travel experience, especially for our Middle Eastern clientele. Our culinary program is crafted to be inclusive, inventive, and authentic with chefs trained in regional cuisines, and the flexibility to accommodate bespoke preferences. From lavish buffet spreads during Ramadan to elegant, private dining experiences, our F&B offerings are designed to surprise and delight even the most seasoned gourmet travelers.
Q: Luxury tourism and high-net-worth travelers from the Middle East are looking for exclusive, all-encompassing experiences. How does Cinnamon Life’s upcoming casino and entertainment offerings align with this demand?
Cinnamon Life has been envisioned as a playground for the modern luxury traveler where experiences are immersive, indulgent, and effortless. Our upcoming luxury casino, high-end retail promenade, and entertainment spaces will offer a curated lifestyle ecosystem. It’s about creating spaces that feel private yet vibrant, elevated yet inviting. This resonates strongly with the high-net-worth Middle Eastern traveler who values both exclusivity and excitement.
Q: What marketing strategies and partnerships are in place to increase awareness and attract Middle Eastern tourists and corporate clients to Cinnamon Life?
We’ve adopted a highly targeted, relationship-driven strategy in the Middle East working closely with travel advisors, luxury consortiums, and regional influencers. Through roadshows, hosted familiarization visits, and joint promotions with airlines and tourism boards, we’re building a strong emotional and aspirational connection with our audiences.
Q: Looking ahead, how do you see Cinnamon Life evolving as a key player in both the MICE and Middle East tourism segments? What are the long-term goals for growth in these markets?
Our long-term vision is to establish Cinnamon Life as the definitive lifestyle and event destination in South Asia. For the MICE segment, our goal is to lead with innovation, experience design, and scale. For the Middle East, we aim to build enduring relationships making Cinnamon Life the first choice for everything from family holidays to high-profile business gatherings. Ultimately, we want every guest from the region to feel a deep sense of belonging, sophistication, and possibility when they walk through our doors.
