Wuhai, China

With a population of 556,621, Wuhai is a gritty industrial hub in the heart of Inner Mongolia's Gobi Desert. The city's economy is heavily dependent on coal mining, chemical processing, and power generation - a reality that leaves much of the urban landscape blanketed in dust and smog. While the local government touts ambitious plans for renewable energy and sustainable development, the day-to-day grind of bureaucratic red tape remains a persistent headache for residents. Bitterly cold winters and scorching summers only compound the challenges of living in this remote, isolated corner of China. Unless you're a hardy, no-nonsense type who can tolerate high levels of pollution and a distinct lack of creature comforts, Wuhai is likely not the expat destination for you.