It's good that you recognize your desert conditions will be a challenge for the Cordyline. But if you want to give them a shot...
1) Morning sun and beneath the semi-shady canopy and protection of taller plants/trees
2) Sandy soil dries out quickly, so I would probably do some organic amending; no peat unless you are sure you can keep the area moist
3) Under protection, maybe, although they may defoliate
4) Regular moisture without being soggy, and it's okay for them to get slightly on the dry side between waterings, but never bone-dry

I have experience growing them in coastal San Diego and east (wet) Hawaii, but no desert experience.