Cristiano Ronaldo, the renowned Portuguese striker who joined Al-Nasr, plans to live in Saudi Arabia with his partner Georgina Rodriguez. Local authorities reportedly have not been actively pursuing cases of foreign couples living outside wedlock recently, though the policy remains in force. This overview comes from comments attributed to experts in Saudi civil law as reported by EFE.
Saudi legal specialists note that enforcement against unmarried couples has softened in practice. The prohibition exists in theory, but prosecutors rarely pursue such cases unless accompanied by another offense. In other words, the legal framework still stands, but the likelihood of action against a couple living together without marriage has diminished in recent times.
Georgina would need a visa to reside in Saudi Arabia. She faces two possible routes. The first would involve direct cooperation from Al-Nasr to facilitate her stay. The second option would see her obtain a tourist visa, which can allow a continuous stay of up to 90 days. These possibilities reflect the country’s visa policies and how they interact with high-profile foreign residents and their companions.
Diplomatic channels do not typically issue visas to unmarried partners. However, according to the source, local authorities may consider exceptions in certain circumstances. Such potential allowances underscore the negotiation space that surrounds celebrity residency cases in Saudi Arabia, where public interest, family considerations, and regulatory rules intersect.
On January 2, Cristiano Ronaldo formally joined Al-Nasr under a contract widely reported to be worth about €200 million per year. In addition to the base salary, there have been mentions of extra bonuses linked to performance and to the welfare of Ronaldo and his family as part of the overall package. This level of compensation places the move among the most high-profile transfers in football history and signals the club’s ambition to compete at the highest level in regional and international tournaments.
Beyond the headline salary, the arrangement includes practical commitments. Reports indicate that Ronaldo may purchase an aircraft through the club to facilitate travel between Saudi Arabia and his home in Europe, particularly Portugal and Spain. There is also talk of securing upscale housing for the family in a luxury residence, designed to meet contemporary needs and provide privacy, security, and comfort. These elements reflect how modern elite athletes structure life off the pitch to balance training demands, travel, and family wellbeing.
Additional details circulating at the time emphasize the scope of support connected to Ronaldo’s residency. The club is described as taking a proactive approach to the star forward’s lifestyle, addressing day-to-day requirements, and ensuring that his family enjoys suitable living conditions. Such arrangements are part of a broader trend in elite football where clubs provide extensive relocation packages to attract top talent and keep players focused on performance, while also managing living arrangements that help their families settle quickly in new environments.
Speculation about Ronaldo’s availability for upcoming fixtures had been a topic before the start of 2023 as the midfielder integrated into the squad. Observers noted that his presence would be pivotal for Al-Nasr as the club prepared for early-season matches, with expectations of a strong impact in domestic league competition and continental tournaments. The overall narrative around Ronaldo’s transfer emphasized not only the financial scale but also the strategic importance for the club as it aims to raise its profile on the global stage.
As with any high-profile signing, the Ronaldo move has generated widespread media attention, scrutiny, and public curiosity. The coverage reflects a broader interest in how international stars adapt to life in new leagues, including cultural and regulatory differences. While official statements from the club and authorities were measured, observers continued to follow developments closely, watching to see how the arrangement would unfold for Ronaldo and his family in the Saudi context.