Key Moments:
- City of Dreams Sri Lanka has integrated JCM Global’s transaction and payment solutions into all its electronic gaming machines.
- The iVIZION and ICB systems provide enhanced security, real-time reporting, and support for over 120 currencies.
- The property opened last month as South Asia’s first integrated resort, launching alongside updated national gambling regulations.
Technological Advancements Redefine Casino Operations
City of Dreams Sri Lanka, Melco Resorts’ flagship project, has rolled out JCM Global’s payment technology across its casino floor. All electronic gaming machines now use advanced bill validators that recognize more than 120 currencies, including the Sri Lankan Rupee. In addition, enhanced cash boxes streamline the process of cash drops and counting, increasing efficiency and security for the casino’s daily operations.
According to JCM Global, the iVIZION bill validator takes high-resolution images of both sides of each banknote and analyzes multiple data points to confirm authenticity. The ICB Intelligent Cash Box reduces manual errors and provides real-time web reporting, improving casino management and compliance.
Industry-Wide Shift Toward Automation
City of Dreams Sri Lanka’s investment in automated cash handling reflects a wider shift toward efficient, secure operations. Automated technologies like the ICB Intelligent Cash Box minimize reliance on manual processes, improve compliance, and enhance security. JCM Global’s cash box systems are already deployed on hundreds of thousands of electronic gaming machines worldwide.
Dave Kubajak, JCM’s senior vice-president of sales, marketing and operations, said in prepared remarks: “We are thrilled to further expand our relationship with Melco at the exciting City of Dreams Sri Lanka. Casino operators worldwide trust and rely on JCM solutions, like iVIZION and ICB, to be the first line of defense to protect their casino floor, while also streamlining operations and boosting compliance.”
Landmark Integrated Resort Launch
City of Dreams Sri Lanka represents a US$1.2 billion investment and is positioned as the largest private sector project in the country’s history. The integrated resort was developed by John Keells Holdings in partnership with Melco Resorts & Entertainment, officially opening last month within Colombo’s Cinnamon Life complex.
| Property Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Hotels | Cinnamon Life @ City of Dreams (687 rooms) and NÜWA @ City of Dreams (113 ultra-luxury rooms) |
| Other Amenities | Casino, 17 dining venues, luxury retail spaces, MICE facilities |
| Workforce | Over 500 Sri Lankan artisans and workers |
Lawrence Ho, Chairman and CEO of Melco, noted the strategic importance of the location: “Macau is by far the biggest gaming market in the world. Colombo is the closest destination to India, and an integrated resort like this gives the city a lot of potential.”
Tourism and Economic Recovery
The opening of City of Dreams Sri Lanka is set to drive growth in the country’s tourism and leisure sectors. Featuring world-class hotels, casinos, gaming spaces, and entertainment, the resort aims to capture international visitors and assist Sri Lanka’s recovery from the impacts of 2022 and the COVID-19 pandemic. Strong interest from high-spending tourists, particularly from India, is already evident, as Sri Lanka received more than 416,000 Indian visitors in 2024.
Krishan Balendra, Chairperson of John Keells Group, called the resort “an ambitious national vision brought to life,” emphasizing its potential to elevate Sri Lanka’s global profile and benefit local supply chains and services.
Regulatory Updates and Fiscal Changes
The debut of City of Dreams Sri Lanka coincides with a new regulatory landscape for gambling in the country. The Gambling Regulatory Authority (GRA) Act, effective since September 2025, has established an independent body to manage casino licensing, monitor operations, and enforce responsible gaming standards for all segments, including horse racing and online betting.
The 2025 budget introduced several fiscal adjustments: entry fees for Sri Lankan residents at casinos have increased from US$50 to US$100, and the betting and gaming levy on gross revenue has risen from 15 percent to 18 percent. The Attorney General has approved the required legislative amendments, with Cabinet authorizing publication in the Government Gazette before formal submission to Parliament.
Upcoming iGaming Summit in Colombo
Colombo is preparing to host more than 5,000 delegates at SiGMA South Asia from November 30 to December 2, 2025. This event offers networking opportunities and access to one of the world’s fastest-growing gaming markets, positioning Colombo as a key destination in the global iGaming sector.
- Author
Daniel Williams
