Arid geomorphological research continues apace with publications appearing in a diverse range of outlets. Themes common to several recent (2008–2009) books include greater emphasis on the global diversity of arid environments, the improved temporal framework for research findings, and the growing contribution of arid geomorphology to interdisciplinary research fields. Building on previous progress reports, this article touches on all three themes, but particularly highlights how applications of geochronology (e.g. cosmogenic isotope analysis, luminescence dating, and radiocarbon dating) are challenging or revolutionizing understanding of the timing and rates of arid geomorphological change. Four case studies from ‘iconic’ arid landscapes illustrate changes over different timescales: (1) canyons of the Colorado Plateau region, southwest USA (last ~5–6 Ma); (2) aeolian dunefields in central Australia (last ~1 Ma); (3) palaeolakes in the Kalahari, central southern Africa (last ~300 ka); and (4) alluvial and ...