Drylands, covering 45% of Earth's land area and supporting about 40% of the global population, are characterized by extreme temperatures, low rainfall, and poor soil fertility. Microorganisms in these regions play crucial roles in ecosystem services, but their communities are under threat from desertification and climate change. This review synthesizes current knowledge about microbial life in drylands, highlighting their diversity and adaptations. It discusses anthropogenic threats, such as climate change, and outlines knowledge gaps. The review proposes research priorities to address these gaps and ensure the sustainability of these fragile biomes. Key findings include the dominance of specific microbial groups in drylands, the impact of aridity on microbial communities, and the importance of multi-omics approaches for understanding microbial adaptations. The authors emphasize the need for interdisciplinary collaboration and advanced technologies like remote sensing and AI to advance research and develop effective conservation strategies.Drylands, covering 45% of Earth's land area and supporting about 40% of the global population, are characterized by extreme temperatures, low rainfall, and poor soil fertility. Microorganisms in these regions play crucial roles in ecosystem services, but their communities are under threat from desertification and climate change. This review synthesizes current knowledge about microbial life in drylands, highlighting their diversity and adaptations. It discusses anthropogenic threats, such as climate change, and outlines knowledge gaps. The review proposes research priorities to address these gaps and ensure the sustainability of these fragile biomes. Key findings include the dominance of specific microbial groups in drylands, the impact of aridity on microbial communities, and the importance of multi-omics approaches for understanding microbial adaptations. The authors emphasize the need for interdisciplinary collaboration and advanced technologies like remote sensing and AI to advance research and develop effective conservation strategies.