Shangri-La Hambantota is pleased to announce that the resort has achieved Halal-Friendly Certification by the Trace & Able (Private) Limited only entity in Sri Lanka certifying and conducting professional compliance audits for Halal standards in the Hospitality Industry. The official announcement took place at the joint ifthar celebration hosted by Shangri-La Hambantota and Shangri-La Colombo on Monday, 23 February at Shangri-La Colombo.

The certification confirms the resort’s ability to provide clearly identified Halal dining options prepared under documented protocols designed to ensure clarity and prevent cross-contact. These standards are supported by trained compliance oversight and ongoing monitoring, offering guests confidence in their dining choices.

As a Halal-Friendly certified resort, Shangri-La Hambantota continues to operate as a fully integrated luxury destination.

Guests may enjoy the resort’s diverse culinary experiences, golf course, wellness facilities, and family recreation offerings, while Halal conscious travellers are provided with Halal dining options and culturally considerate amenities available upon request.

The global Muslim travel segment represents one of the fastest- growing sectors in international tourism. Industry projections indicate that Muslim traveller arrivals are expected to reach approximately 230 million globally by 2028, with estimated annual expenditure surpassing USD 225 billion. With a predominantly family-oriented and experience-driven demographic, this segment increasingly seeks destinations that combine premium hospitality with transparency in dining standards and cultural sensitivity.

This milestone strategically positions Shangri-La Hambantota to strengthen its appeal across regional and long-haul markets, including South Asia, the Middle East and Southeast Asia.

“Our Halal-Friendly Certification reflects our long-term vision to evolve alongside the needs of global travellers,” said Shangri-La Hambantota General Manager Refhan Razeen. “This is not about changing who we are as a resort. It is about enhancing our operational clarity and inclusivity ensuring that every guest can experience Shangri-La Hambantota with confidence.”

The certification also reinforces the resort’s position as a premier venue for destination weddings, large-scale celebrations and corporate gatherings. Halal dining protocols provide added assurance for families and event planners seeking clarity in catering standards, without compromising the elegance and diversity of a Shangri-La experience.

In line with this strategic direction, Shangri-La Colombo has formally expressed its intent to explore Halal-Friendly Certification with Trace & Able (Private) Limited. The hotel is currently at the preliminary stage of engagement and has not yet undergone or completed the certification process. Certification status will be communicated upon successful completion of the full compliance and audit process.

This coordinated approach across Shangri-La’s Sri Lanka portfolio reflects a broader commitment to inclusivity, operational consistency and responsiveness to evolving traveller expectations. By aligning standards across both properties, Shangri-La Sri Lanka aims to offer a cohesive and trusted experience for leisure travellers, corporate groups and celebratory events alike.

Shangri-La Hambantota remains committed to delivering hospitality that is globally relevant, operationally rigorous and thoughtfully inclusive.

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Resplendent Ceylon is proud to announce that Cape Weligama has been named in the 2026 Condé Nast Traveller Gold List, a prestigious recognition celebrating the world’s finest hotels and resorts. This accolade positions Cape Weligama among the top luxury destinations globally and showcases Sri Lanka’s continued rise as a key player in the world of luxury travel.

Malik J. Fernando, Chairman of Resplendent Ceylon, commented: “We are incredibly honoured that Cape Weligama has been included in the 2026 Condé Nast Traveller Gold List. This recognition belongs, first and foremost, to our incredible team, whose passion defines everything we do. But it’s also a moment of encouragement for Sri Lanka as a whole, especially at this time. When the country needs positive stories, this award shines a light on our resilience, our hospitality, and the unforgettable experiences Sri Lanka offers travellers.”

The Condé Nast Traveller Gold List is one of the most respected awards in the travel industry, and being included highlights Cape Weligama’s dedication to delivering exceptional experiences.

Cape Weligama, known for its stunning clifftop views, world-class facilities, and warm hospitality, is the only Sri Lankan resort on the 2026 Condé Nast Traveller Gold List. This recognition adds to the resort’s growing list of accolades, including a Michelin Key, joining Ceylon Tea Trails and Wild Coast Tented Lodge in earning Michelin Key recognition for their exceptional hospitality. These accolades further solidify Resplendent Ceylon’s standing as a leader in Sri Lanka’s luxury tourism.

The 2026 Condé Nast Traveller Gold List comes at a time when Sri Lanka’s tourism industry is rebuilding and thriving, with this recognition offering a timely boost to the country’s global visibility. Cape Weligama’s inclusion reinforces Sri Lanka’s place on the luxury travel map and showcases the island’s ability to deliver world-class experiences.

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