Local developer Aldar Properties has signed an agreement with the Dubai-based Chalhoub Group to open 18,600 square metres of retail space at Yas Mall.

The department store will sell products from more than 200 global brands featuring a large variety of concessions stores and designers.

Aldar says that 95 per cent of the mall is now committed ahead of the opening in November 2014. It adds that the remaining units will be leased on a selective basis to ensure they complement the existing retail mix, while bringing new experiences to Abu Dhabi.

The local/Belgian Six Construct Abu Dhabi won the estimated AED2bn ($544m) contract to build the mall in December 2011.