Combining mulch and optimal irrigation scheduling can increase crop yield and water use efficiency in arid regions. Field experiments with spring wheat in China showed that mulching can boost grain yield and WUE compared to no mulching. Mulched wheat is more sensitive to water stress in early growth stages but less sensitive in later stages. For wet years, irrigation should be applied at specific growth stages to maximize yield and WUE. In normal or dry years, irrigation timing should be adjusted accordingly. The highest WUE was achieved with specific irrigation amounts and timings, showing that combining mulch and optimal irrigation scheduling is effective for improving crop productivity in arid climates.