Colombo Sheraton Hotel targets global business elites

By Ifham Nizam

The newly opened Sheraton Colombo Hotel caters mainly to business travelers across various global industries and markets, Sheraton Colombo General Manager Rahul Maini said. The hotel is part of Marriott International, reputed to be the world’s largest hotel chain.

Maini told The Island Financial Review that while Sri Lanka has seen a rise in tourism during the last 12 months, Colombo remains a major commercial hub in South Asia for corporate travel.

‘We have witnessed a strong uptick from this segment since opening doors. However, it has only been a few months since we launched and are observing a diverse mix of global guests. In the coming months, we shall be able to clearly identify visitors from corporate and leisure occupancy along with their geographic source markets, Maini noted.

Recently journalists who participated in a media walkthrough at the Sheraton Colombo had the opportunity to experience the hotel’s 320-rooms and other facilities located at Colombo 3.

The hotel which is complete with a Presidential Suite and other themed luxury suites along with a collection of four restaurant outlets, was originally scheduled to be launched in 2020. However, the COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent economic crisis comprised an obstacle to such plans.

According to the General Manager, the architectural contract for Sheraton Colombo Hotel had been awarded to the leading global architectural design consultancy firm WS Atkins, which is also the designer and engineer for Burj Al Arab, the Address Downtown, Dubai Metro and the 2012 Olympic Games in London. The interior design contract was awarded to Catallo Associates of Singapore.

Rahul Maini

Maini added: ‘Marriott International takes corporate social responsibility and sustainability seriously, as conveyed through our 2025 Sustainability and Social Impact Goals aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Sheraton Colombo, as part of the Marriott family, aims to align with these goals.

‘Wherever we operate we aim to empower local communities through providing opportunities for education, employment and economic growth. Sustaining responsible operations is also a priority, with targets around ethical sourcing, waste reduction, and efficient use of natural resources, such as water and energy. As part of the Marriott family, Sheraton Colombo will follow suit by integrating these sustainability and social impact goals into our daily operations and business practices. Sheraton Colombo is dedicated to making positive community impact, driving social good, and minimizing environmental harm so that guests, employees and locals can feel good about choosing to stay with us.

‘Marriott’s commitment to heartfelt care, innovation and building a global community makes our hospitality truly unmatched. As part of this family, Sheraton Colombo inherits and lives up to these high standards.

‘Sheraton Colombo’s focus is on its prime, central location in Colombo’s business district, its contemporary design integrates local cultural elements. It has a variety of upscale dining options, amenities such as the Shine Spa and Sheraton Club lounge and event/meeting facilities. Importantly, our vision is to be a gathering place facilitating connections and community, striving to create a welcoming place for travellers seeking both productivity and belonging.’