Ronaldo and Georginas Engagement Sparks Debate in Saudi Arabia

As the engagement of Cristiano Ronaldo and Georgina Rodriguez made headlines this month, it sparked debates in Saudi Arabia due to their long-standing live-in relationship. The couple, together since 2016 and raising five children, has lived in Riyadh for over two years despite traditional laws discouraging extramarital cohabitation. Their high-profile lifestyle, shared openly on social media with glamorous photos, has been embraced by much of Saudi Arabia’s youthful population, with many offering congratulations and lighthearted reactions.

Still, conservative voices criticised the arrangement, with some calling their children “children of sin.” Saudi Arabia has seen major social reforms under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, including relaxed rules on gender segregation, hotel stays for unmarried couples, women driving, and growing entertainment options. While foreign couples like Ronaldo and Rodriguez benefit from these changes, such freedoms remain rare for Saudis themselves.