Colombo Dress Code

On most occasions business attire in Colombo, Sri Lanka consists of suits or shirt and tie for men and dresses and business suits with either trousers or skirt for the ladies. Outside business hours, casual clothes are perfectly acceptable - although, smart clothing is usually worn to exclusive restaurants and clubs.


Greeting Someone in Colombo

Business people in Colombo generally tend to be formal. Appointments are necessary and it is good to be punctual. When greeting someone it is considered polite to rise to your feet and shake their hand. It is usual to exchange visiting cards on a first meeting.


Colombo Business Hours and Banking

The business hours in Colombo are generally from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday through Friday - although some companies do work on Saturdays. Most of the shops in Colombo are open till around 7:00 pm. The usual banking hours are from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm Monday through Friday, while some banks do operate half day on Saturdays.


Sri Lanka Smoking

Smoking, in Colombo, is only prohibited in places marked with the non-smoking sign - although, it is considered polite not to smoke in the company of non-smokers.