Ronnie O’Sullivan, the seven-time world snooker champion, has opened up about the surprising reasons he’s thriving in his new life in Dubai, revealing that his move isn’t just about sunshine—and it’s deeper than many expected.

Ronnie O’Sullivan, the seven-time world snooker champion, has opened up about the surprising reasons he’s thriving in his new life in Dubai, revealing that his move isn’t just about sunshine—and it’s deeper than many expected.

 

One of the biggest changes Ronnie made was a digital detox. Since relocating, he’s removed social media, messaging apps, news apps—even the web browser—from his phone. He even changed his phone number, so only his closest family and friends can contact him. He described the shift as a “clean start,” something he’s long craved.

Peace Through Simplicity

O’Sullivan said he’s not interested in networking or expanding his social circle. “I’ve got my friends and that’s enough,” he said, admitting the phone used to feel like a burden rather than a benefit. He’s prioritising mental clarity and well-being more than ever. Ahead of major tournaments, he’s focusing on working out, running, and keeping his head in a good place.

Escaping the Chaos of the UK

Part of the draw of Dubai was a break from what he described as the hectic pace of life in Essex and London. He was doing long commutes—sometimes up to 80 minutes into London—and making frequent weeklong trips to Sheffield just to practice. He admitted that all the travel and jet lag from going back and forth, especially for tournaments in the Middle East and China, left him physically and mentally drained.

Strategic Move for His Career

Professionally, relocating to Dubai makes a lot of sense for O’Sullivan. A big factor was proximity: many of his tournaments are in China and the Middle East, and he’s also heavily involved in his snooker academy in Saudi Arabia. He noted that in the UK, finding consistent, high-quality practice facilities was difficult—sometimes he had to go to Sheffield just to find a table. Dubai offers top-tier training facilities, great gyms, and a lifestyle more conducive to his ambitions.

An Unexpected Perk: Not Speaking Arabic

Perhaps the most unexpected reason he loves Dubai? He doesn’t speak Arabic—and he sees that as a benefit. O’Sullivan joked that because he can’t understand the language, he doesn’t feel pressured to strike up conversations with everyone he meets. He said, “We just smile at each other, ‘hello,’ and it’s good.” For him, it’s a way to maintain a level of privacy and distance, even in a new environment.

Not About Flash — Just Genuine Contentment

Contrary to what some might expect, Ronnie insists he didn’t move to Dubai for a flashy, “bougie” lifestyle. He appreciates the simplicity, the calm, the warm climate, and being able to focus on his snooker and personal life. He’s described this chapter as one of the most contented and balanced phases of his career.