COLOMBO, 2nd January 2025 – Sri Lanka’s capital continues to enhance its reputation as a premier destination in South Asia, earning accolades for accessibility, healthcare, and technological advancement in the latest Brand Finance Global City Index.
Colombo ranked 33rd globally for ease of obtaining a visa, boosted by Sri Lanka’s decision to grant visa-free entry to nationals of 35 countries. This policy has significantly elevated the city’s appeal, making it one of the easiest South Asian cities to visit.
The Brand Finance Global City Index is based on insights from over 15,000 respondents across 20 countries, evaluating 100 cities on Key Performance Indicators such as Familiarity, Reputation, and Consideration. Cities were also rated on 45 attributes under seven pillars, including Business & Investment and Culture & Heritage.
Colombo’s healthcare system also gained recognition, climbing ten places to secure the 74th position. With internationally accredited hospitals and advanced medical facilities, the city continues to provide accessible and high-quality healthcare supported by both public and private sectors, attracting medical tourists seeking specialized care.
In science and technology, Colombo made significant progress, climbing six places to rank 57th globally. This improvement underscores Sri Lanka’s commitment to fostering innovation and positioning the capital as a hub for scientific advancement.
Despite Colombo’s positive strides, the world’s top city rankings remain dominated by London, New York, and Paris, with Tokyo and Dubai advancing to the 4th and 5th spots.
Ruchi Gunewardene, Chairman of Brand Finance Lanka, highlighted the city’s resilience and forward momentum:
“Colombo’s achievements in accessibility, healthcare, and technological innovation showcase its dedication to creating a world-class urban experience. These advancements reflect the resilience of Sri Lanka and its ability to turn challenges into opportunities, positioning Colombo as a beacon of progress in South Asia.”
As Colombo continues to prioritize development across key sectors, Sri Lanka is poised for sustained growth and recognition on the global stage. The Brand Finance Sri Lanka 100 2025 journal, set to be released in spring, will further explore the country’s brand landscape and economic trajectory.
