What is the name of the largest desert of the world?

The answer to this question depends on the specific wording often used in General Knowledge exams. While the Sahara is the largest hot desert, the correct answer for the largest desert overall is Antarctica.

1. The Scientific Answer: Antarctica

A desert is scientifically defined as any region that receives very little precipitation (usually less than 250mm per year). Under this definition, Antarctica is the largest desert on Earth, covering approximately 14.2 million square kilometers. It is a "polar desert."

2. The Common MCQ Answer: Sahara

In many standard General Knowledge tests, if the options do not specify "hot" or "cold," people often select the Sahara. It is the largest subtropical (hot) desert in the world, covering about 9.2 million square kilometers across North Africa.

Comparison of the Options:

• Sahara: The largest hot desert in the world (North Africa).


• Thar: Also known as the Great Indian Desert, located in northwestern India and eastern Pakistan.


• Thal: A desert located in Punjab, Pakistan, between the Jhelum and Indus rivers.


• Vatican: This is the smallest independent city-state in the world; it is not a desert.