Reviewing the documents regarding the development of photovoltaic systems implies dust accumulation as one of the most significant challenges in arid regions with high solar potential. Moreover, the complexity of this phenomenon and its considerable impacts on the performance of photovoltaic systems, emphasize the need for thorough and comprehensive analysis. Therefore, the current study provided an extensive literature review regarding the parameters affecting dust accumulation. Through the research, the classification of the effective parameters, as well as their impacts on the soiling process on photovoltaic modules' surface, were determined in detail. Furthermore, an in depth and critical analysis of the state of the art, followed by identification of challenges for future researches, has been presented. The results of the current study can serve as a thorough reference for researchers, designers, and engineers who deal with photovoltaic systems in regions struggling with dust events such as the MENA region and, in particular, Iran.