Why Cristiano Ronaldo Loves Saudi Arabia and the Gulf

Cristiano Ronaldo, the five-time Ballon d'Or winner and one of the greatest footballers of all time, shocked the world in late 2022 by signing with Al Nassr, a football club based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Many were curious: Why would a global football icon, who conquered Europe, choose the Middle East for the next chapter of his career?

But as time passed, Ronaldo not only adapted to life in Saudi Arabia but expressed deep appreciation for the Gulf region, its people, culture, and futuristic ambitions. The Gulf countries—especially Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Qatar—are known for their rapid modernization, immense wealth, and growing global influence, especially in sports.

This article delves deep into the reasons why Ronaldo likes Saudi Arabia and the broader Gulf region, unraveling a combination of personal aspirations, financial incentives, cultural alignment, and futuristic visions that align with the superstar’s mindset.

1. A Record-Breaking Financial Package

One of the most immediate and obvious reasons for Ronaldo's move to Saudi Arabia was the record-breaking contract he secured with Al Nassr.

Salary: Reports suggest that Ronaldo earns over $200 million annually including salary, bonuses, and commercial deals, making him the highest-paid athlete in the world.

Commercial Rights: Beyond football, the contract includes image rights and sponsorship arrangements tied to Saudi Arabia's global campaigns, especially linked to Vision 2030, the country's ambitious socio-economic reform plan.

For a player of Ronaldo’s stature, money is not the sole motivator, but the unprecedented financial offer was an undeniable attraction, allowing him to secure generational wealth for his family.

2. Strategic Alignment with Saudi Vision 2030

Saudi Arabia is undergoing massive transformations under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's Vision 2030, aimed at diversifying the economy away from oil dependency and promoting sectors like sports, tourism, and entertainment.

Sports Investment: Saudi Arabia is heavily investing in football, golf, boxing, and even e-sports to position itself as a global sports hub.

Ronaldo's Role: Ronaldo is not just a player in this context—he is an ambassador of sport and culture, promoting Saudi Arabia's image to the world.

Ronaldo has publicly stated that he feels honored to be part of a new sporting frontier, where his influence can inspire a generation and help shape a growing football culture.

3. Cultural and Religious Respect

Ronaldo is known for his respectful demeanor towards other cultures and religions. In Saudi Arabia, he has expressed appreciation for:

The Cultural Heritage: Ronaldo has admired the rich history and traditions of the Kingdom, frequently participating in local events and showcasing respect for Islamic customs.

Family Values: The Gulf region, particularly Saudi Arabia, emphasizes strong family bonds and conservative values, which resonate with Ronaldo's own upbringing and personal principles.

In interviews, Ronaldo has praised the hospitality and respect he has received, which makes him feel welcomed and valued not just as a player, but as a person.

4. Lifestyle and Privacy

Unlike in Europe where celebrities are constantly in the public eye, the Gulf countries, especially Saudi Arabia, offer a luxurious yet private lifestyle.

Exclusive Communities: Ronaldo lives in highly secure, exclusive residences, ensuring privacy for his family.

Luxury Amenities: With access to private beaches, luxury malls, top-notch health facilities, and premium educational institutions for his children, the lifestyle is tailored to elite preferences.

The low crime rate and high security in the region provide an ideal environment for someone of Ronaldo's fame to enjoy life without the constant burden of paparazzi and media frenzy.

5. The Opportunity to Make History

Ronaldo has always been driven by the desire to make history. By moving to Saudi Arabia:

He became the first megastar to sign in the Saudi Pro League, paving the way for others like Karim Benzema, N'Golo Kanté, and Neymar.

His presence has elevated the league's profile, leading to increased viewership, sponsorship deals, and global attention.

He is also involved in the development of sports academies and training programs, helping to build a sports culture from the grassroots level.

Ronaldo stated, "I want to help this country and this league grow. It's not just about football; it's about creating a legacy."

6. Business and Investment Opportunities

The Gulf region is not just a playground for the wealthy—it's a thriving hub for business.

Real Estate: Ronaldo has reportedly invested in luxury real estate in Saudi Arabia and Dubai.

Brand Expansion: With the Middle East's growing consumer base, Ronaldo's CR7 brand finds new markets for fashion, fragrances, and health products.

Partnerships: Collaborations with Gulf-based businesses provide lucrative endorsements and cross-promotional opportunities.

The region’s pro-business policies, tax advantages, and financial security make it an attractive location for Ronaldo to expand his empire beyond football.

7. Growing Sports Scene in the Gulf

Besides football, the Gulf countries, especially UAE, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia, are developing a broader sports ecosystem:

Golf: Saudi Arabia hosts prestigious golf events like the Saudi International, part of the European Tour.

Boxing: Major boxing fights have been held in Riyadh and Jeddah, drawing global stars.

F1 Racing: The Saudi Grand Prix in Jeddah is now a major fixture in the Formula 1 calendar.

Ronaldo, being a sports enthusiast, enjoys being in an environment where elite sports are celebrated, and he often attends major events in the region.

8. Personal Satisfaction and Quality of Life

In interviews and social media posts, Ronaldo has expressed personal satisfaction living in the Gulf:

Climate: The warm climate suits Ronaldo’s preferences, allowing him to maintain his training regime year-round.

Health and Wellness: State-of-the-art facilities and health services help him stay in peak condition.

Family Happiness: His children are reportedly happy in their new schools, and his partner, Georgina Rodríguez, often shares glimpses of their luxury life on social media, praising the hospitality.

For Ronaldo, the move was not just professional—it was also a personal and family-centered decision.

9. Respect and Hero Status

Unlike in Europe where aging players often face criticism, in Saudi Arabia and the Gulf:

Ronaldo is treated with immense respect not just as a player but as a global icon.

He is often called an "ambassador of dreams", inspiring young people across the region.

His opinions are highly valued, and he is regularly invited to national events, official galas, and international forums.

This level of reverence and admiration adds to his satisfaction in staying in the region.

10. Gateway to Other Gulf Countries

Ronaldo’s base in Saudi Arabia also gives him easy access to:

Dubai, UAE: A favorite destination for celebrities, where Ronaldo frequently vacations.

Qatar: Host of the historic 2022 FIFA World Cup, and a growing sports hub.

Bahrain and Kuwait: Emerging destinations with luxury resorts and cultural significance.

His liking for Gulf countries in general is evident as he travels frequently within the region, enjoying the unique blend of tradition and modernity each offers.

Conclusion

Cristiano Ronaldo's affection for Saudi Arabia and the broader Gulf is not just a business transaction or a career decision—it is a strategic, personal, and cultural alignment with a region that is rapidly transforming itself into a global epicenter of sports, business, and luxury living.

For Ronaldo, the Gulf represents:

Financial security

Cultural respect and admiration

Business and brand expansion

Legacy-building in emerging sports markets

Personal and family happiness

His presence has already transformed perceptions of Saudi Arabia and the Gulf in the world of sports. Whether he continues playing or steps into a sports diplomacy role, there is no doubt that Ronaldo's bond with the region is deep and evolving.

In his own words:

“I feel that coming here is not the end of my career, but a new beginning to make history in a different part of the world.”

And with that mindset, Ronaldo is not just playing football in Saudi Arabia—he is building a bridge between East and West, tradition and innovation, and sport and society.

Bonus: Quick Overview of Ronaldo's Favorite Gulf Countries

Country Why Ronaldo Likes It

Saudi Arabia Respect, football revolution, privacy

UAE (Dubai) Luxury lifestyle, business hubs, tourism

Qatar Sports infrastructure, World Cup legacy

Bahrain Cultural events, peaceful retreats

Kuwait Hospitality, emerging luxury sector