If you’re on the hunt for the best burger in UAE, you’re in the right place. Whether you’re living in the Emirates or just visiting, one thing is certain: burger lovers are spoiled for choice. The UAE’s burger scene has exploded over the last few years, with joints offering everything from classic American cheeseburgers to gourmet wagyu patties stacked high with truffle sauce and gold leaf.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through the must-try burger spots across major cities like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and beyond. Whether you prefer your burger simple and satisfying or daring and dripping with flavor, this list will help you find the best burger in UAE to satisfy your craving.
Why the UAE is a Burger Lover’s Paradise
Before we dive into the list, let’s talk about why the UAE has become such a hotspot for burgers.
- Diverse Culinary Influence: From American-style diners to local fusion creations, the UAE blends international flavors with local creativity
- Premium Ingredients: Think wagyu beef, artisanal buns, truffle mayo, and organic veggies. Quality is top-notch
- Instagram-Worthy Creations: Presentation matters, and many burger joints in the UAE deliver showstopping plates worthy of social media fame
Top 10 Places for the Best Burger in UAE
1. Pickl – Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah
If there’s one name that frequently tops the list of the best burger in UAE, it’s Pickl. Known for their fresh fast food motto, Pickl makes no compromises on quality.
Try This: Double Cheeseburger with Spicy Pickles
Why We Love It:
- No frozen patties, everything’s made fresh
- Options for chicken, beef, and plant-based eaters
- Funky sauces and soft buns that don’t fall apart
Locations: JLT in Dubai, Yas Mall in Abu Dhabi, Aljada in Sharjah
2. Salt – Beach Spots and Malls Across UAE
Salt started as a food truck and grew into a cultural phenomenon. Their beachfront burgers are a must for every burger lover.
Signature Bite: Original Cheeseburger or the Wagyu
Why It’s One of the Best Burgers in UAE:
- Wagyu beef patties melt in your mouth
- Excellent balance between meat, bun, and sauce
- Great beachside vibes to go with your meal
Popular Locations: La Mer, Abu Dhabi Corniche, Umm Al Emarat Park
3. High Joint – Al Manara, Dubai
This hidden gem is high on flavor, low on pretense. It started as a passion project and quickly became an award-winning burger spot.
Don’t Miss: High Jamz Burger with pepper jam and crispy fried onions
Highlights:
- Small space, big taste
- Bold ingredients like jalapeño cheese and garlic butter
- Affordable prices with gourmet taste
4. Five Guys – Multiple Locations
You can’t talk about the best burger in UAE without mentioning the legendary Five Guys. This American chain brings consistency, customization, and juicy burgers.
Fan Favorite: Bacon Cheeseburger with All the Toppings
Why It’s Great:
- Customizable down to the last pickle
- Generous servings and free peanuts while you wait
- Perfect fries with Cajun seasoning
5. Shake Shack – Mall Favorites
Another American staple, Shake Shack offers a clean, classic burger that always hits the spot.
Top Pick: SmokeShack with Crinkle-Cut Fries
What Makes It Great:
- Signature ShackSauce is unbeatable
- Consistent across all branches
- Great milkshakes to round off the meal
6. Smashburger – Dubai and Abu Dhabi
Smash-style burgers are all the rage, and Smashburger does it right. If you love crispy-edged juicy patties, this is your place.
Try This: Classic Smash with extra cheese and grilled onions
Pros:
- Fast service, bold flavors
- Perfect sear on thin patties
- Combo meals with value pricing
7. The Grill Shack – Dubai Mall
Located in the heart of Dubai Mall, The Grill Shack offers hearty, meaty burgers with a side of good vibes.
Recommendation: Tex-Mex Burger with jalapeños and guac
Perks:
- Full dine-in experience
- Great for family outings
- Mix of American, South African, and international influences
8. Black Tap – Jumeirah Al Naseem, Dubai
If you want gourmet burgers with a side of outrageous milkshakes, Black Tap is your spot.
Top Burger: The Greg Norman with wagyu, blue cheese, arugula
Why It Deserves a Spot:
- Unique flavor profiles
- High-end gourmet experience
- World-famous CrazyShakes
9. Bareburger – City Walk Dubai
Organic clean eating meets delicious burger building at Bareburger. Great for health-conscious foodies who don’t want to sacrifice flavor.
Top Pick: Be My Burger customizable with organic beef or plant-based options
Good To Know:
- Gluten-free and vegan-friendly
- Eco-conscious interiors and packaging
- Creative sauces and toppings
10. Burger28 – Abu Dhabi
This UAE-grown burger joint is one of Abu Dhabi’s best-kept secrets. With a cult following and huge portions, Burger28 delivers serious flavor.
Must Try: Volcano Burger oozing cheese and spicy sauce
Reasons to Go:
- Unique creations
- Affordable and filling
- A local favorite with UAE roots
What Makes a Burger the Best
Everyone has their own idea of what makes the best burger in UAE, but here are some common traits:
- Quality Meat: Whether it’s wagyu or Angus, freshness and fat ratio matter
- Bun Matters: Soft slightly sweet buns that hold up under pressure
- Balance of Flavors: The right combo of savory, salty, sour from pickles, and creamy from the sauce
- Presentation: We eat with our eyes first, and Instagram-worthy burgers are a big draw
Vegetarian and Vegan Burgers You Shouldn’t Miss
Not a meat eater? The UAE burger scene has evolved. Some top meat-free options include:
- Pickl’s Impossible Burger
- Bareburger’s Sweet Potato and Wild Rice Burger
- Hemp burger at Common Grounds
- Beyond Burger at Black Tap
You can now enjoy the best burger in UAE even if you’re plant-based.
Burgers Beyond Dubai: Hidden Gems Across the UAE
While Dubai gets much of the attention, don’t miss out on these lesser-known gems:
- Bun Meats Dough in Sharjah for local fusion with deep flavors
- Meat Moot in Ajman for Turkish-style smoked burgers
- House of Pops Burgers in Ras Al Khaimah where ice cream meets burgers
These spots prove that you can find the best burger in UAE even outside the big cities.
How to Discover New Burger Spots in UAE
Stay updated on new burger launches by:
- Following local food influencers on Instagram
- Checking foodie apps like Zomato or Talabat
- Visiting food festivals like Taste of Dubai or Abu Dhabi Culinary Season
Final Thoughts: Which Burger Will You Try First
Whether you’re after an old-school cheeseburger, a massive double-stack wagyu creation, or a vegan option with flavor that rivals the real thing, you’re never far from the best burger in UAE.
So go ahead, treat yourself. Bookmark this guide, share it with your foodie friends, and start ticking these spots off your list. The perfect burger might just be a bite away.
Checklist Recap: What to Look for in the Best Burger in UAE
- Juicy fresh patty
- Balanced toppings
- Toasted bun
- Good value
- Consistent taste
- Memorable sauce
What’s Your Favorite Burger in the UAE
Have a favorite spot we missed? Drop a comment or send us your foodie tips. Let’s keep the best burger in UAE conversation going.
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