What does Islam have to say about girlfriends. Is it ok if you have a girlfriend but do not have a physical relationship?

In Islam, love, as is in the western culture, is prohibited. The negative
consequences of such love are abundantly clear. Among other evils, some are
adultery, rape, abortion, etc.

Many young girls have ruined their future by having a child and are
compelled to bring up the child as a singular parent. In many instances,
even without the support of her 'lover'. If by 'love', inclination to marry
is meant, then obviously, inclination and compatibility are necessary
factors to maintain a harmonious marriage.

and Allah Ta'ala Knows Best

Mufti Ebrahim Desai
FATWA DEPT.