Objectives This paper analysed the characteristics and values of World Desert Heritage Sites with outstanding geological values, revealed the feasibility of applying for inscription in China’s desert heritage potential areas, and provided strategic suggestions for the inscription of China's natural heritage.

Methods Based on the relevant materials released by UNESCO and the inscription texts submitted by each State Party to the World Heritage Committee, this paper identified and classified 18 World Desert Heritage Sites with outstanding geographic value. The paper then comparatively analysed the heritage value of the world desert heritage Sites in the dimensions of topography and geomorphology, biodiversity, nature and culture, and natural beauty. This analysis was conducted in conjunction with the framework of classification of geographic value of the World Natural Heritage Sites. A comparative analysis of the world deserts heritage Sites revealed a multifaceted evaluation of their heritage values across several dimensions, including topography, biodiversity, nature and culture, and natural beauty. At the same time, the natural heritage resource value assessment index system was utilized as a framework for detailed value assessment and discussion of China's desert heritage potential areas.

Results It was found that among the current world desert heritage, the desert semi-desert system was the most scarce in terms of heritage. Its heritage value was predominantly attributed to its topography and biodiversity, and it lacked the display of continuous and active geological processes. The desert heritage site type of Taklimakan Desert—Populus euphratica Forests with the theme of endangered and rare organisms, and the combination of tall sandy mountains and pristine intermountain lake landscapes in Badain Jaran Desert-Towers of Sand and Lakes were both at a blank stage in the world desert heritage sites.

Conclusions The complete, continuous and evolving desert geomorphological features and change processes in China’s desert heritage potential areas are the best examples to fill the gaps in the desert semi-desert system. China's declaration of the world desert heritage is a way to better monitor and protect the desert ecological environment, thereby promoting the sustainable development of the world natural heritage.