Thermal drying is a crucial method in food preservation; however, conventional approaches often compromise product quality and consume significant amounts of energy. This chapter examines the technological advancements in thermal drying, with a focus on microwave and heat pump drying systems that are enhanced by Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT). By integrating these Industry 4.0 technologies and the concept of Industry 5.0, food drying processes are being transformed into intelligent, adaptive systems that minimize nutrient losses, retain sensory attributes, and improve energy efficiency. This chapter reviews key developments, highlighting AI’s extensive application in predictive modeling and process optimization, particularly through Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs), while emphasizing the potential of IoT for real-time monitoring and control. A bibliometric analysis further illustrates AI’s dominance in research and the underutilization of IoT despite its industrial scalability. Beyond technical gains, the integration of AI and IoT directly supports multiple Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including Zero Hunger, Good Health and Well-Being, Affordable and Clean Energy, and Responsible Consumption and Production, by fostering food security, reducing resource consumption, and promoting sustainable automation. In alignment with Society 5.0, this chapter positions these innovations as enablers of human-centered, resilient, and sustainable food systems, paving the way for next-generation drying technologies in agriculture and food processing.