Aitken Spence Hotels and RIU Hotels and Resorts Spain will invest US$ 100 million to build 501 rooms ‘RIU Resort hotel in Ahungalle. The Resort is expected to open in mid 2016.

The ground breaking ceremony of the hotel was held recently with President Mahinda Rajapaksa as the chief guest.

Chairman of Aitken Spence Harry Jayawardene, said that the timing of the hotel’s opening would be right since the Southern Highway to Hambantota is expected to reach completion by that time. “We have the Mattala Airport facility already in place, giving us an ideal mix for our business model. Aitken Spence has always encouraged infrastructure development in the country and our investment is proof of our confidence and support of the Government’s development plans.”

“The strategy for all our beach resorts in the South including the new RIU Resorts is in line with the Government’s vision for the further development of the country, especially in the tourism segment.”

“That a lot has been done and more is being done is clearly evident. Therefore it is now our turn to deliver on our promise. We have delivered on the promise of developing overseas, and continue to do so in Sri Lanka. RIU Hotels and Resorts is a giant step in that direction.”

The international RIU chain traces its history back to 1953, when it was founded by the Riu family in Mallorca. RIU has made its name for its acclaimed all inclusive holiday services, for guests who are looking for perfect relaxation in a single location. In co-ownership with TUI, a long standing partner of Aitken Spence, RIU Resorts is run by the third generation of the Riu family. The Company boasts of more than 100 properties in 16 countries catering to 3.2 million guests a year.

The new venture in Ahungalla offers all the promise of RIU combined with the expertise Aitken Spence Hotels has gained over the years in the hotel industry both in Sri Lanka and overseas. The 501 room resort will have 438 double rooms, 30 family rooms, 20 single rooms and 13 suites. Facilities will include restaurants with common buffet areas, theme restaurants, shops, lobby bar, gym and a spa with separate steam and sauna and many other facilities.