Snooker icon Ronnie O'Sullivan has embarked on a radical digital detox since relocating to Dubai this summer, describing it as a "clean start" that has transformed his approach to life and sport.
A New Beginning in the Middle East
The seven-time world champion, who turns 50 next month, made the life-changing move in June after selling his Essex home. O'Sullivan chose Dubai over potential alternatives in Yorkshire or Spain, seeking an environment where he could fully focus on his sporting career.
This relocation followed his surprise marriage to actress Laila Rouass, known for her roles in Footballers' Wives and her Strictly Come Dancing appearance in 2009. Their relationship has been something of a rollercoaster since they first got engaged in 2013, with the couple announcing their separation late last year before unexpectedly marrying in June.
The Digital Detox Lifestyle
In his new Dubai home, O'Sullivan has implemented an extreme digital cleanse. His phone contains no messaging apps, news applications, or even a web browser, and he has completely cut himself off from social media platforms.
"I wish I'd done it before, I might do it every six months," O'Sullivan told The Sunday Times. "I'm not looking to progress my career through networking and that sort of thing. I've got my friends and that's enough. The phone doesn't really add to my life. So it's quite nice, really."
Only a select group of friends and family members can reach him directly, creating what he describes as a peaceful existence free from digital distractions.
Why Dubai Works for The Rocket
The choice of Dubai was significantly influenced by his new wife. Rouass, who is of Moroccan origin, wanted a sunny home base, and the couple agreed that the lifestyle offered in the Middle Eastern hub suited them perfectly.
"We're not there for a bouji sort of lifestyle," O'Sullivan clarified. "I just like the simplicity of it there, the weather's great."
The location also provides practical benefits for his professional commitments. O'Sullivan's state-of-the-art five-table snooker academy in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, which he opened in partnership with the Saudi government, is conveniently accessible from Dubai. He regularly visits the facility as a coach and mentor, working with both elite international players and emerging young talent.
Being based in Dubai has simplified his travel schedule, which he admits had become challenging. "The constant travelling and resulting jet lag was a struggle," he revealed.
A Low-Key Approach to Life
The couple's preference for simplicity extended to their wedding ceremony, which took place at St George's Town Hall in Shadwell, East London. The ceremony was notably understated, conducted without fanfare and without a best man present.
"I didn't actually have anyone there," O'Sullivan admitted. "I mean, we had Laila's sisters. But we didn't want anything big."
Even the language barrier in Dubai contributes to their desired lifestyle. "One of the beauties of not knowing the language is I don't really want to talk to everyone that I come in contact with," he explained. "I know it sounds terrible but we just smile at each other, hello, and it's good."
O'Sullivan will return to competitive action this week at the Riyadh Season Snooker Championship in Saudi Arabia, bringing his newly focused mindset to the baize as he approaches his half-century milestone.
