Abstarct: With the growth of population and urban development in hot and humid regions, the need for high efficiency and low energy air conditioning systems has become increasingly evident. Conventional vapor-compression air-conditioning systems, although effective in reducing air temperature, have limitations in humidity control and providing optimal thermal comfort. Their high electricity consumption also imposes additional pressure on the power grid and the environment. The use of solar desiccant air conditioning systems as a sustainable and low energy alternative enables the decoupling of cooling and dehumidification processes and can significantly enhance overall energy efficiency. In this study, the performance of a solar desiccant air conditioning system under the hot and humid climatic conditions of Iraq is investigated using thermodynamic simulation and real climatic data. The main components of the system, including the solar collector, solid desiccant wheel, heat exchanger, and post cooling section, are modeled. Performance indicators include coefficient of performance (COP), moisture removal rate (MRR), overall energy efficiency, and thermal comfort indices. The effects of key parameters such as regeneration temperature, desiccant wheel speed, and air mass flow rate are analyzed. Simulation results show that the solar desiccant system can reduce electricity consumption from the grid by approximately 20–30%. Moreover, compared to conventional air conditioning systems, it provides superior humidity control and improved thermal comfort. Energy and exergy analyses identify critical operating points and optimization opportunities, offering recommendations for improving COP and system stability during peak solar radiation hours and under rapid variations in ambient temperature and humidity. This research provides a clear pathway for the design and implementation of efficient, economical, and climate adapted solar air conditioning systems in hot and humid regions. It contributes to reducing energy consumption, improving indoor air quality, and mitigating the environmental impacts associated with conventional cooling technologies.