Pickl, the UAE’s leading homegrown burger brand, has officially launched in Saudi Arabia, marking a game-changing moment in its regional expansion. With not one, but two dine-in locations now open in Riyadh’s Cenomi Al Nakheel Mall and U Walk, the launch, led by Sky Restaurants, represents Pickl’s bold entrance into one of the Middle East’s fastest-growing markets. As one of the most rapidly evolving economies in the region, Saudi Arabia is quickly becoming the epicentre of innovation, lifestyle, and next-generation dining. With a young population that has a strong appetite for global trends and quality-led dining experiences, the Kingdom presents unmatched potential, and Pickl is ready to serve it up.

The move introduces Pickl’s fresh fast food concept to a new audience in the Kingdom, bringing its globally recognised menu of hormone-free, antibiotic-free burgers, chicken sandos, loaded fries, and original sauces to Riyadh for the first time. These openings mark Pickl’s 5th county opening globally, underscoring the brand’s rapid growth and solidifying its position as one of the fastest-growing fast-casual brands in the region.

Both new outposts bring Pickl’s bold personality to life with vibrant interiors, neon signage, cosy booths, and graphic walls that echo the brand’s playful, high-energy spirit. The Al Nakheel Mall location spans 2,206 square feet with 96 indoor seats and 16 outdoors, while the U Walk outlet covers 2,217 square feet with 98 seats indoors and 24 outside. Both stores are open daily from 12 noon, for guests to enjoy Pickl’s signature menu in an upbeat, feel-good atmosphere.

From homegrown favourite to regional powerhouse

Since opening its first store in Dubai in 2019, Pickl has emerged as a disruptor in the fast-casual space, challenging traditional perceptions of fast food with a focus on quality, transparency, and creativity. Built on real ingredients, bold flavour, and a no-nonsense attitude, the homegrown brand has cultivated a loyal following and earned a reputation for delivering comfort food without compromise. From its signature smash burgers, hormone-free chicken sandos to plant-based options and limited-time specials, Pickl continues to innovate while staying true to its core values. With each new opening, the brand expands intentionally, bringing its fresh fast food experience to new neighbourhoods, cities, and markets across the region.

Speaking about the openings, Steve Flawith, Founder and CEO of Yolk Brands, said, “Saudi Arabia has one of the most exciting and vibrant burger scenes in the region, which makes this launch all the more meaningful for us. We’ve had our sights set on the Kingdom for a very long time, and launching with two locations in Riyadh is a clear reflection of our intent to grow with purpose. There’s a real appetite here for bold, quality-driven concepts, and Pickl is here to bring something fresh to the table. We’re proud to be entering this market with Sky Restaurants as our partner on the ground, and are only just getting started.”    

Strategic Partnership with Sky Restaurants

Pickl’s operations in Saudi Arabia are led by Sky Restaurants, the brand’s exclusive franchise partner for KSA, Egypt and Kuwait. A subsidiary of Sky Investments, the group is dedicated to scaling high-quality F&B concepts across the region. Sky Restaurants first introduced Pickl to Egypt and is now driving the brand’s entry into Saudi Arabia, with plans to launch in Kuwait next. Their operational expertise and market insight have played a key role in bringing Pickl’s fresh fast food experience to new audiences across the Middle East.

Ahmed Hussein, Executive Vice President of Sky Investments, said, “Pickl has achieved tremendous success in the region, and we are incredibly proud to introduce the concept to Saudi Arabia. The brand’s focus on quality, transparency, and guest experience aligns perfectly with what today’s Saudi consumer expects. We’re excited to scale this across the Kingdom.”

With this launch, Pickl is now operational in five countries: the UAE, Bahrain, Qatar, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia. Its parent company, Yolk Brands, is present in seven markets, including Pakistan and Oman, with further regional and international growth on the horizon.

Both Riyadh locations are now open for dine-in, serving Pickl’s full menu in vibrant spaces with easy access at two of the city’s most popular destinations.

SOURCE: HOTEL  & CATERING