Colombo in Focus: Sri Lanka Aims for 5 Million Arrivals as BA Restarts Gatwick Link

Sri Lanka wants to welcome between four million and five million international visitors a year by 2030, the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB) said at World Travel Market (WTM) London 2026. The plan comes alongside new UK air capacity and a growing accommodation offer for travellers.

The targets were set out at a press conference led by Deputy Minister of Tourism Hon. Prof. Ruwan Ranasinghe, who said the country's geographical diversity was one of its strongest selling points.

Key facts

• British Airways' seasonal nonstop London Gatwick–Colombo service started on 23 October
• The route flies three times weekly — Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays — through the winter season
• Sri Lanka is targeting four to five million arrivals a year by 2030
• Full-year 2026 projections stand at about 2.38 million to 2.60 million arrivals
• Adventure Plus travel insurance offers 30 days of cover for $8 (£6)

What flights are available?

British Airways has opened a seasonal nonstop link between London Gatwick and Colombo, which launched on 23 October. The service operates three times weekly on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays throughout the winter season, adding direct capacity alongside SriLankan Airlines' existing services.

What are Sri Lanka's tourism targets?

The country is aiming for four million to five million international arrivals annually by 2030, up from a full-year 2026 projection of approximately 2.38 million to 2.60 million visitors.

Two initiatives launched on 31 August will guide development and international marketing over the next five years: the National Tourism Strategic Planning Consultancy for 2026-2031 and a Global Promotional Campaign Road Map. The strategy focuses on competitiveness, sustainability, resilience and investment, with promotional efforts shifting toward insight-led marketing and higher-value tourism.

The UK remains a priority market, with seniors, families and young professionals identified as key audiences. A digital promotional campaign running over the coming year will aim to position the island as a high-value destination in the UK market.

Where is accommodation expanding?

According to Sri Lanka Tourism, registered establishments have grown by approximately 12% since 2025 and room capacity by 11.6%. New luxury villas, boutique hotels, eco-lodges and experiential properties are opening in Galle, along the southern coast, in the hill country, Ella and Yala, as well as emerging destinations such as Kalpitiya.

What insurance is offered to visitors?

The Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority and Sri Lanka Insurance General have introduced Adventure Plus, a travel insurance product for visitors taking part in activities including surfing, hiking, diving, cycling and wildlife experiences. The policy provides 30 days of coverage for $8 (£6) and is sold through authorised tour operators and activity centres.

What this means for travellers

Travellers from the UK have a new direct Gatwick–Colombo option on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays during the winter season, in addition to existing SriLankan Airlines services. Those planning wildlife, nature or adventure trips can also consider the Adventure Plus policy when booking through tour operators or activity centres.

Sri Lanka's tourism authorities said wildlife and nature-based tourism is another priority for the British market, combining birdwatching, safari experiences, luxury lodges and private villas. Further detail on the five-year promotional strategy is expected as it is rolled out.