October 11, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka has marked a significant step forward in modernising its tourism sector with the official launch of its first artificial intelligence-powered hotel project, Grand Serendib Colombo.
The ceremonial opening took place on the evening of October 10 at the Shangri-La Hotel in Colombo, bringing together a diverse audience of dignitaries, investors, and innovators.
The initiative, spearheaded by leading hospitality and development firm ABEC, coincides with the company’s 20th anniversary and symbolises a bold leap into the future of smart tourism in the region. The event was graced by Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism, Vijitha Herath, who officiated the launch alongside ABEC Premier Dilip K. Herath and national cricket icon and current head coach, Sanath Jayasuriya.
In his remarks, Minister Herath hailed the project as a transformative development for Sri Lanka’s travel and hospitality industry. “This is more than just a hotel,” he stated. “It represents a fusion of technology, innovation, and vision. By incorporating AI into the hospitality experience, we are aligning Sri Lanka with the global shift towards intelligent tourism solutions that cater to the expectations of modern travellers.”
The Grand Serendib Colombo is positioned as a next-generation hospitality destination, integrating artificial intelligence to personalise guest experiences, streamline services, and enhance operational efficiency. With features such as smart check-ins, AI-driven concierge systems, and predictive room service, the project aims to set new benchmarks in customer-centric travel experiences in South Asia.
The inauguration was attended by a host of distinguished guests, including Member of Parliament Dr Harsha de Silva, senior academics, diplomatic representatives, and university officials from both local and international institutions. Their presence underscored the project’s broader relevance—not just as a commercial venture, but as an example of how technological advancement can reshape key sectors of the national economy.
The hotel, once completed, is expected to attract both tech-savvy tourists and investors seeking innovation-driven destinations. It also serves as a statement of confidence in Sri Lanka’s potential as a forward-looking hub for tourism and digital transformation.
The celebration also paid tribute to ABEC’s two-decade journey, recognising its contributions to infrastructure and hospitality development in Sri Lanka. As the nation looks to revitalise its tourism sector post-crisis, ventures like Grand Serendib Colombo signal a move towards more resilient, tech-integrated economic strategies.
