- Sri Lanka comes in 33rd globally for ‘easy to get visa’.
- Colombo climbs six places to come in 57th for ‘leader in science and technology’.
- Sri Lanka’s capital ranks 74th for ‘accessible and good quality healthcare’.
- London, New York, and Paris remain world’s top 3-ranked cities across all metrics, as Tokyo and Dubai rise to 4th and 5th ranks.
- The research is based on a survey of 15,000 respondents across 20 countries, providing global insight on the world’s top city brands.
Colombo continues to strengthen its position as a leading destination in South Asia, offering notable accessibility and liveability by ranking 33rd globally for ‘easy to get visa’. The introduction of visa-free entry for nationals from 35 countries may have significantly boosted the city's appeal, making it one of the easiest South Asian cities to visit.
The Brand Finance Global City Index results are based on insights from over 15,000 respondents across 20 countries, who rated 100 cities on Key Performance Indicators such as Familiarity, Reputation, and Consideration. These measures illustrate the degree to which each city is perceived as an ideal place to live, work, study, visit, retire, and invest in. Respondents were also invited to select from 45 attributes grouped under seven pillars, including Business & Investment and Culture & Heritage, in associating attributes with city brands.
Complementing its accessibility ranking, Colombo ranks 74th for its healthcare system, moving up ten places from 2023. Home to internationally accredited hospitals and state-of-the-art medical facilities, the city provides accessible healthcare services supported by both public and private sectors, attracting patients seeking specialised care.
By prioritising scientific advancement and fostering a dynamic tourism sector, Sri Lanka is poised to solidify its position on the global stage. This strategic approach not only enhances the nation's appeal to discerning travellers but also fuels economic growth through innovation and technological development. As Sri Lanka continues to nurture a vibrant and progressive society, it is well-positioned for sustained success in the international arena.
Ruchi Gunewardene, Chairman, Brand Finance Lanka, commented:
"Colombo’s remarkable strides in accessibility, healthcare, and science and technology reflect its commitment to providing a world-class urban experience for visitors and residents alike. Sri Lanka’s reemergence from last year’s political challenges highlights the resilience of its people and the vibrancy of its capital, positioning Colombo as a beacon of hope and progress in South Asia."
In addition, the Brand Finance Sri Lanka 100 2025 journal, showcasing Sri Lanka's most valuable and strongest brands, will be released in spring of 2025. This detailed analysis highlights brand performance, market trends, and key strategies shaping the business landscape.