Enhancing root system traits in cereals through integrated genomic and phenomic approaches is crucial for improving yield and sustainability under drought stress. This review explores root system variations in cereals and their interaction with shoot architecture to enhance drought resilience and maintain yield. It compiles drought-responsive QTLs and genes, using microsynteny for comparative analysis. The review advocates for integrating genomics and phenomics to harness genetic diversity and optimize breeding for resilient crops.