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RIU celebrates 10 years in Sri Lanka: a decade of history and expansion in the Indian Ocean
7 August, 2026 Share
This year, RIU is proud to celebrate its 10th anniversary in Sri Lanka. The opening of the Hotel Riu Sri Lanka in 2016 marked the chain’s historic first arrival in the Indian Ocean and the Asian continent, serving as the cornerstone for its subsequent expansion into destinations such as the Maldives, Dubai, and Thailand.
For this reason, Sri Lanka will always hold a unique significance in the company’s archives. Embarking on this journey in this corner of the world involved the challenge of deciphering a new market and the courage to pave the way where RIU had never set foot before. That initial learning experience, built upon hard work, enthusiasm, and respect for the local culture, became the ultimate training ground and the definitive catalyst for successfully conquering the other paradises of the Indian Ocean.
Why was Sri Lanka the starting point for RIU in the Indian Ocean?
This tenth anniversary marks an extraordinary milestone for our chain, as it represented the first time our brand arrived in the waters of the Indian Ocean. When we inaugurated the Hotel Riu Sri Lanka in the idyllic area of Ahungalla in 2016, we launched a project filled with enthusiasm that ushered in a new era of international growth across Asia.
Thanks to the fantastic reception from our guests, we have maintained a firm commitment to growth in the region since that very first opening. This has led us to bring the RIU experience to other fascinating corners of the globe, such as the Maldives and Dubai, while also enthusiastically preparing for our next great challenge: the imminent debut of the chain in Phuket, Thailand, with its opening scheduled for this September.
What is there to discover in Ahungalla and on the majestic Emerald Isle?
Known as the Emerald Isle for the lushness of its landscapes, Sri Lanka captivated Marco Polo himself with its dense tropical forests, plains teeming with wildlife, and idyllic, Caribbean-like coastlines in the heart of the Indian Ocean. In fact, it boasts the highest concentration of UNESCO World Heritage sites per square metre, preserving its legacy of ancient kingdoms and mysterious, age-old traditions intact.
Excursions and cultural landmarks you cannot miss
To enrich your stay and connect with Sinhalese history, we recommend exploring some of the island’s most fascinating cultural and natural treasures:
- Spirituality and tradition: Visit the majestic Kanda Viharaya temple to behold the world’s tallest seated Buddha statue, or set sail for Barberyn Island to discover the iconic Beruwala Lighthouse.
- Colonial heritage: Explore the historic city of Galle, a fortified port town that continues to exude the timeless charm of the architecture left behind by former Dutch, French, and British settlers.
- Nature in its purest form: Embark on a safari through Udawalawe National Park to observe elephants in their natural habitat, ascend the sacred summit of Adam’s Peak, or venture deep into the Sinharaja Forest Reserve.You can also book tours for whale, dolphin and sea turtle watching.
Family holidays in Ahungalla with 24-hour All Inclusive
Our Hotel Riu Sri Lanka boasts a privileged location right on the beach of Ahungalla, a unique setting of fine sand surrounded by the waters of the Bentota River and the sea. Featuring 501 rooms perfectly appointed for families, couples or groups of friends, we have designed this resort to combine absolute relaxation, water sports and the renowned RIU 24-hour All Inclusive service.
Sinhalese gastronomy: a fusion of authentic flavours
At RIU, we are passionate about bringing local culture to your table. Sri Lankan cuisine is renowned for its rich historical influences, masterfully blending ingredients such as rice, fresh coconut, freshly caught fish, and a variety of aromatic spices.
Throughout your stay, we invite you to savour local delicacies such as:
- Brinjal moju: Delicious pickled and spiced aubergines.
- Indiappa: Traditional noodles prepared with rice flour.
- Mallum: A warm salad of shredded green leaves with sautéed fish and turmeric.
- Coconut milk rice: A traditional dessert sweetened with local honey.
- Ceylon tea: The island’s iconic beverage, served in a variety of aromatic blends.
Summary of services and facilities at the Hotel Riu Sri Lanka
| Service / Facility | Details and Key Highlights |
| Location | Beachfront on Ahungalla Beach (southwest coast) |
| Capacity | 501 spacious, modern, and fully equipped rooms |
| Opening Year | 2016 (First RIU hotel in Asia and the Indian Ocean) |
| Board Type | Exclusive 24-Hour All-Inclusive RIU service |
| Swimming Pools | 3 outdoor pools (includes Adults Only area and children’s pool with slides) |
Celebrate a decade of memories in the Indian Ocean with us!
Are you looking to enjoy an unforgettable experience in Asia with the comfort you have come to expect? We would like to invite you to celebrate these 10 years of history in Sri Lanka by booking your next holiday at the Hotel Riu Sri Lanka. Allow yourself to be captivated by the warmth of the Sinhalese culture and enjoy this tropical paradise with all your family.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
RIU first arrived in Sri Lanka in 2016 with the opening of the Hotel Riu Sri Lanka in Ahungalla, marking the company’s initial expansion into the Indian Ocean and Asia.
The hotel is situated on the country’s south-west coast, directly on the beachfront of Ahungalla and flanked by the Bentota River.
The establishment operates under the signature 24-hour All Inclusive concept from RIU, encompassing world-class gastronomy, snacks, beverages, and comprehensive entertainment programmes.
Subsequent to the opening in Sri Lanka, RIU has launched hotels in the Maldives and Dubai, in addition to preparing for the upcoming debut of its first resort in Phuket, Thailand.
From the hotel, you can embark on excursions to the Kanda Viharaya temple, the fortified city of Galle, Udawalawe National Park for an elephant safari, and marine safaris for whale and dolphin watching.
Absolutely. The resort features a children’s pool complete with slides, the RIU Land kids’ club offering daily workshops and activities, and a wide array of entertainment suitable for all ages.
