We use the MODerate resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) aboard the Terra spacecraft to derive surface albedo for global arid and semiarid regions. Albedo in seven MODIS spectral bands for land and three broad bands (for solar shortwave, near infrared, and visible portions of the spectrum) is produced. Surface albedo is derived from MODIS observations during 16-day periods between November 2000 and December 2001 and is analyzed at 1 km spatial resolution. MODIS data show considerable spatial variability both across various arid regions of the globe (from the bright deserts of northern Africa and the Arabian peninsula to the mid-latitute Eurasian deserts) and within regions (variability related to soil and rock types). For the semiarid regions, a noticeable temporal signal in the albedo was observed that was associated with the emergence of ephemeral plant cover during the short rainy season.