Objective: Dry eye (DED) has emerged as an important ocular health concern among children and adolescents. However, in pediatric populations in western China, its epidemiological characteristics and associated risk factors have not been thoroughly investigated. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of DED and analyze its risk factors among school-age children and adolescents in Yingjisha County, Kashgar Prefecture, Xinjiang, so as to provide a solid evidence base for formulating prevention and control strategies. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted from May to June 2024 at Yingjisha County No. 3 Middle School and Mangxin Central Primary School. A total of 3,305 school children and adolescents completed the questionnaire, and 557 of them were randomly selected for ocular surface examinations. The Keratograph 5M was used to measure tear meniscus height (TMH) and non-invasive tear break-up time (NIBUT). DED diagnosis adhered to the Dry Eye WorkShop II 2017 (DEWS II) criteria published by Tear Film & Ocular Surface Society (TFOS). Multivariate logistic regression was applied to evaluate the associated risk factors. Results: Among the 557 children and adolescents who underwent examinations, the prevalence of DED was 16.88% (94/557). No statistically significant difference was observed between genders (P = 0.81). The prevalence of DED increased with age, showing a significant linear trend. Participants with refractive errors in either eye had a significantly higher prevalence of DED (29.05% vs. 12.47%, P< 0.001). Logistic regression analysis identified age (OR = 1.21) and refractive error (OR = 2.72) as risk factors. No significant associations were found for gender, Body Mass Index (BMI), axial length of the right eye, or parental myopia. Conclusions: The prevalence of DED among school-age children and adolescents in Yingjisha County is either comparable to or slightly lower than, the national average. Age and refractive error substantially increase the risk of DED. Greater attention should be directed towards children’s refractive status to protect ocular surface health and implement early preventive measures.