Jehovah’s Witnesses (JW.ORG) is scheduled to host a three-day International Convention in Colombo from Sept 5 to 7, drawing over 3,500 international delegates from 10 countries and more than 14,000 total participants including local members. The convention will take place at the Sugathadasa Indoor and Outdoor Stadium, with all sessions conducted under the global theme “Pure worship”.

The announcement was made at a special media briefing held on July 1, attended by Secretary to the Prime Minister Pradeep Saputhanthri, who affirmed the government’s full support for the event. He noted that all necessary approvals and logistical facilitation would be provided to ensure its success, recognising the convention’s significance for tourism and inter-cultural engagement.

The convention is expected to deliver a substantial economic impact. In 2018, a similar international JW.ORG gathering generated USD 6.9 million in tourism revenue. This year, organisers estimate an increase to USD 7.6 million, driven by high visitor turnout and extended travel itineraries across Sri Lanka’s leading tourist destinations.

Delegates from the United States, Greece, Japan, Australia, Indonesia, the Philippines, India, the Czech Republic, and Nepal have confirmed participation. Many of the international attendees have already secured bookings at over 12 luxury hotels across Colombo, with additional travel plans to Galle, Pinnawala, Yala National Park, and Nuwara Eliya following the convention.

“Jehovah’s Witnesses are known for their peaceful conduct and high level of organisation, making them exemplary visitors,” noted a tourism industry spokesperson. “Their conventions not only contribute to hotel occupancy and revenue but also promote Sri Lanka as a safe and welcoming destination for global faith-based travel.”

The three-day programme will feature a series of spiritual discourses, video presentations, and panel discussions focused on biblical teachings and values. All sessions will encourage love, compassion, and community unity—hallmarks of JW.ORG’s global mission.

With over 8.5 million members worldwide, JW.ORG conventions are held across continents each year, offering both spiritual enrichment and substantial economic benefits to host cities. The upcoming Colombo convention is poised to reaffirm Sri Lanka’s capacity to host world-class religious events while bolstering the country’s ongoing tourism recovery.