As Sri Lanka’s urban landscape evolves, residential developments are playing an increasingly important role in shaping how people live, work, and connect. From vertical living to smart home technologies, the design and functionality of homes now influence not just comfort, but safety, sustainability, and investment confidence.
According to Sabeer Iqbal, Managing Director of Rush Lanka Group, the company’s focus on quality, innovation, and trust has positioned it as a leading developer in the country. He says that by anticipating urban trends, integrating technology, and maintaining a commitment to long-term value, Rush Lanka aims to redefine how Sri Lankans experience city living while supporting the growth of the nation’s real estate sector.
Over the past 30 years, how has Rush Lanka shaped its role in the real estate sector, and where does it stand today?
Over the past three decades, Rush Lanka has grown from a small operation to a recognised name in Sri Lankan real estate. We had several companies under the Rush name, but our actual market presence was limited. With humble beginnings, the company’s vision was never solely about making money.
People invest their life savings in these homes, so maintaining quality has always been a central theme. Our first project in 1994 in Dehiwala was also the first in that area, and it started with a single booking. Growth in those early years came mainly through word of mouth because marketing channels were limited.
Competition has naturally increased over time, but I focus more on competing with myself than with other developers. Our drive has always been to deliver consistent quality, trustworthiness and a sense of security for homeowners. Even during challenging times, such as economic fluctuations, we prioritised keeping projects on schedule and maintaining the standards that people have come to expect from the Rush name.
Could you share the vision behind your developments across the affordable, premium, and luxury segments? What urban trends are these categories designed to address?
Our vision across all segments is consistent: to provide quality homes that meet real lifestyle needs. Affordable projects focus on safe, suitable locations with vertical living solutions, while premium and luxury cater to those seeking more space, amenities, and prestige. The goal is always to match the lifestyle expectations of buyers in each category.
Even in affordable projects, we use the same trusted suppliers, elevators, and finishes as in premium ones. The difference is mainly in the range of materials rather than the quality itself. Transparency is key. Customers can clearly see what each segment offers, so they know exactly what to expect.
When we started, vertical living was emerging, but most people still preferred building on their own land. We saw an opportunity to provide high-quality apartments at realistic prices for middle-class families and young professionals. We also introduced flexible payment plans and focused on prime locations in emerging neighbourhoods to combine accessibility with affordability. Facility management services were another early innovation, ensuring residents had support even after purchase.
Lifestyle trends such as young couples, families concerned with inheritance, and professionals also shaped our offerings. By understanding these needs, we could design homes that are not only functional but also provide long-term value and peace of mind.
How does Rush Lanka plan to position itself as a trusted platform for foreign and diaspora investment into Sri Lankan real estate?
Positioning Rush Lanka as a trusted platform for foreign and diaspora investors is all about maintaining credibility and transparency. Social media or advertisements may initially introduce investors to us, but the real proof comes from our track record. Completing projects on time, providing proper documentation and maintaining high construction standards are what build confidence.
Diaspora investors place a high value on verified documentation. We ensure that all projects have the necessary Certificate of Conformity (COC) and Condominium Management Authority (CMA) for title deeds and comply fully with regulations. Many diaspora clients buy homes for retirement or as second homes, so after-sales support is crucial. We understand and respect the emotional attachment behind this — as Lankans, we always want a home back home.
Rush Lanka never cuts corners. Marketing may bring clients in, but seeing completed projects and verified documentation gives them the confidence to invest. Word of mouth from satisfied customers reinforces trust and has historically been a major driver for us. Even for international buyers, the consistency of delivery and transparency in pricing and project details are what set us apart.
How is Rush Lanka leveraging data, design, or technology to future-proof its developments?
We are actively introducing automation and smart home technologies into our projects. This includes features such as automatic air conditioning, curtain control, door unlocking, and integrated home systems controlled via smartphones. We are also improving the design of communal spaces, such as rooftops, gyms, and play areas, to make them functional and enjoyable.
In addition, we are exploring renewable energy solutions, like solar panels, though the technology and regulations in Sri Lanka are still developing. Our approach is gradual, aligning with how people adopt new technologies, so that homes remain practical, efficient, and easy to maintain. Ultimately, we aim to future-proof our developments while keeping them realistic for the local market.
Looking ahead, what does success look like for Rush Lanka in shaping Sri Lanka’s urban transformation over the next decade?
Success, for me, is about creating safer, smarter, and more energy-efficient vertical living communities. Vertical living not only uses land more efficiently but also encourages discipline and reduces costs for residents. Over the next decade, we want to expand our scale while maintaining quality and community focus, incorporating technologies like solar energy, rainwater harvesting, and sewage treatment where feasible.
We aim to grow with the market, helping Sri Lanka embrace modern, sustainable urban living. Our goal is not just to build homes, but to contribute to a transformation that makes city life safer, greener, and more comfortable for everyone.