Abstract: There are rich renewable energy resources in Gobi and desert areas due to the unique natural environment and resource conditions. However, the randomness of renewable energy poses significant challenges to the consumption and transmission of electric energy. The synergistic integration of various energy sources, including electricity, heat, and energy storage systems, can significantly enhance the stability of energy supply. This paper presents a systematic review of multi-energy optimal operation methods applicable to Gobi and desert areas. Firstly, the energy composition and distribution within these areas are summarized. Through an analysis of the stochastic characteristics of sources and loads in Gobi and desert areas, a typical "source-grid-load-storage" distributed multi-energy system architecture along with complementary operational schemes are discussed. Afterwards, this paper reviews the optimization operation methods for multi-energy systems from three perspectives as follows: randomness of system operation, multi-time scale, and carbon market trading. By summarizing the existing problems in current research, the prospects in future development trends and key technologies are presented. This research provides theoretical supports for the utilization of renewable energy and promotes energy development in Gobi and desert areas.