UAE’s second largest mall to launch in November

Aldar Properties, Abu Dhabi’s leading listed property development, investment and management company, has announced that anchor tenants have accelerated fit-out of their units at Yas Mall in preparation for the scheduled opening in November to coincide with the 2014 Formula One Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

Tenants are now actively engaged with the 2.5 million sq. ft. mall development, Abu Dhabi’s first super-regional mall and the UAE’s second largest mall after Dubai Mall, which is also the world’s largest.

Some of the units currently being fitted-out in the upcoming Yas Mall are by anchor tenants Debenhams, the UK high street department store, VOX Cinemas, and Geant, set to be the largest hypermarket in the capital. Meanwhile, Funworks, a family entertainment centre that will offer a unique edutainment concept, and The Cheesecake Factory have also begun fit-out.

Additional retailers are scheduled to move on site in the coming weeks as the momentum builds to the end of the year. Major retail groups, including Al Shaya, Majid Al Futtaim, Assadea, Dubai Holding, Fucom, Landmark and Royal Sporting House have all reiterated their commitment to the November opening as they progress with their fit-outs.

Talal Al Dhiyebi, Executive Director of Asset Management at Aldar said: “The mall offers a unique opportunity to retailers and the feedback has been very positive as we further engage with our committed tenants and potential new retailers. Yas Mall is set to transform the retail landscape in Abu Dhabi and will enhance the Yas Island proposition as a world-class destination. Local and international consumers alike will soon be able to enjoy a unique shopping, dining and leisure experience in the country’s capital.”

Meanwhile, Aldar recently hosted major retail groups representing over 150 fashion, leisure and F&B brands that are committed to Yas Mall. The visit included meetings with management and a tour of the mall, allowing partners to experience first-hand the unique features and grand scale of the up-coming retail development.

Duncan McLellan, General Manager of Dubai Holding Group, commented: “Yas Mall has been one of the most anticipated retail launches in our 2014 rollout and we are fully committed to opening on the mall’s scheduled launch date. I have no doubt that the Mall will take Abu Dhabi to the next level, making the capital one of the most prominent retail destinations in the region. We are pleased to show our support with our entire brand portfolio including Zara, which is set to launch its largest store yet in the UAE.”

David Reilly, Chief Executive Officer of RSH Middle East, added: “Yas has made leaps and bounds since we last visited the site. Once open, the mall is sure to be the most impressive shopping destination in Abu Dhabi. With its impressive retail offering, contemporary interior, effortless layout, and location; no doubt Yas Mall will bring countless visitors through its doors when it opens in November.”

Yas Mall will open an exciting range of leading international and regional retail and F&B brands, a 20 screen state of the art cinema operated by VOX Cinemas and a family entertainment zone by Funworks. With the completion of Yas Mall, Aldar will become the largest owner and manager of retail space in Abu Dhabi.

Yas Island is situated roughly 10 minutes from the Abu Dhabi International Airport and 20 minutes from downtown Abu Dhabi, making it an attractive and accessible destination for both residents and tourists. A selection of seven hotels can be found on the island including the luxurious Yas Viceroy Abu Dhabi, as well as a range of top attractions comprising: Yas Marina Circuit; Yas Marina; Ferrari World Abu Dhabi; Yas Water World; Yas Links Golf Course; and Yas Retail Park which includes IKEA and Ace Hardware.

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