<p>Owing to the robust global economy, population growth, and high urbanization rates, the building sector is experiencing significant expansion and an increase in energy demand. Consequently, the building sector has become one of the largest consumers of energy worldwide, making sustainability an important consideration. Sustainable design strategies aim to reduce the energy consumption of buildings, thereby mitigating their negative environmental impacts. Typically, the demand for better thermal comfort due to changes in lifestyle and needs has led to the use of air conditioning, which increases energy demand and expenses for users. Therefore, architects are reconsidering alternative methods, such as passive design strategies, to increase thermal comfort. One of these strategies is the courtyard, one of the oldest building elements in human history, which has been applied in various climatic conditions. Studies have shown that courtyards and atria can enhance the energy efficiency of buildings, particularly in hot and dry climates. However, proper integration of these elements is necessary to take advantage of them and optimize the energy performance of buildings. Therefore, this study focuses on analyzing existing studies that investigate the effect of courtyards and atria on energy demand in hot desert regions. It aims to identify, explain, and categorize the main design variables of these two elements and then examine their individual impacts on energy performance. Finally, this paper presents a comprehensive set of variables that are essential for the effective integration of courtyards and atria into building design in hot, dry regions.</p>