Hilton has signed six management agreements with Melwa Hotels & Resorts for three Hilton Hotels & Resorts and three DoubleTree by Hilton properties in Sri Lanka. The deal marks the debut of the DoubleTree by Hilton brand in Sri Lanka and significantly expands Hilton’s presence in some of the most sought-after destinations in the country.
The six new-build properties, including three resorts are scheduled to open between 2020 and 2021; Hilton Kandy Resort; Hilton Yala Resort & Spa; Hilton Kosgoda Resort; DoubleTree by Hilton Nuwara-Eliya; DoubleTree by Hilton Colombo International Airport; DoubleTree by Hilton Negombo
Guy Phillips, Senior Vice President, Development – Asia & Australasia, Hilton said, “Our hotels are strategically located in the heart of key tourist destinations of Kandy, Yala, Kosgoda, Nuwara-Eliya, Colombo, and Negombo, allowing them to reap the full benefits of the burgeoning growth in tourism in Sri Lanka. We are pleased to be working with a partner of the experience and standing of Melwa Hotels & Resorts to advance our footprint within this dynamic country.”
In 2016, Sri Lanka’s international arrivals surpassed all previous records to hit a new milestone of more than two million – a 14 per cent increase from 2015. The government has also launched a series of initiatives to grow tourism, embarking on key infrastructure developments such as expanding the national road network which will positively impact the six proposed hotels.
Sean Wooden, Vice President, Brand Management, Asia Pacific, Hilton said, “We are delighted to add to our existing portfolio in Sri Lanka with our world-class Hilton Hotels & Resorts and DoubleTree by Hilton brands in highly attractive destinations within the country, and we look forward to welcoming guests with our renowned Hilton hospitality. With few international hotel brands having a widespread presence throughout the country, Hilton will enjoy the first mover advantage in riding on Sri Lanka’s growth trajectory.”
