Studying in Saudi Arabia vs. Uae
Saudi Arabia 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 €1,072 in Saudi Arabia and €1,350 in Uae.
Side-by-side comparison
Verdict
Cheaper tuition
Saudi Arabia
Cheaper monthly living
Saudi Arabia
Lower visa proof of funds
Saudi Arabia
Side-by-side comparison
Saudi Arabia
Uae
Currency
SAR (SR)
AED (AED)
Public tuition (annual)
SR0
≈ €0 / yr
AED55,000
≈ €13,750 / yr
Private tuition (annual)
SR60,000
≈ €14,700 / yr
AED95,000
≈ €23,750 / yr
Monthly living (city avg)
SR4,375 / mo
≈ €1,072 / mo
AED5,400 / mo
≈ €1,350 / mo
Visa proof of funds
SR36,000
Proof of funds (≈ SR 3,000/month) — often covered by a scholarship
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Cities tracked
Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, Mecca
Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Al Ain
Figures are 2026 reference estimates from our cost calculator. Actual costs vary by city, program, and lifestyle.