Studying in China vs. Uae
China and Uae are both popular study destinations — but the price tag, visa rules, and currency differ. We pulled the numbers from our cost calculator: monthly living averages €552 in China and €1,350 in Uae.
Side-by-side comparison
Verdict
Cheaper tuition
China
Cheaper monthly living
China
Lower visa proof of funds
China
Side-by-side comparison
China
Uae
Currency
CNY (¥)
AED (AED)
Public tuition (annual)
¥26,000
≈ €3,302 / yr
AED55,000
≈ €13,750 / yr
Private tuition (annual)
¥45,000
≈ €5,715 / yr
AED95,000
≈ €23,750 / yr
Monthly living (city avg)
¥4,343 / mo
≈ €552 / mo
AED5,400 / mo
≈ €1,350 / mo
Visa proof of funds
¥100,000
Bank balance proof (annual, X1/X2 visa)
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Cities tracked
Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Nanjing
Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Al Ain
Figures are 2026 reference estimates from our cost calculator. Actual costs vary by city, program, and lifestyle.