Saharan dust influences Atlantic TC genesis, but the relationship and mechanisms are not fully understood. This study investigated the dust radiative effects on atmospheric thermodynamics and tropical cyclogenesis over the Atlantic Ocean using WRF-Chem coupled with an aerosol data assimilation system. Both statistics and a case study revealed that low-altitude (high-altitude) dust inhibits (favors) convection owing to changes in convective inhibition. Semi-direct effects were also noted.