More than 30 global brands are to set up shop at the delayed Mall of Qatar, following a “mega deal” with Kuwaiti franchise operator Alshaya.

Retail names including Debenhams, River Island, Starbucks and Boots are among 32 brands set to occupy around 18,000 square metres in the mall, it was announced.

The leasing agreement also includes Alshaya franchised brands such as Shake Shack, H&M, Miss Selfridge, Topshop, Victoria’s Secret, Next and Mothercare.

“Qatar is an important and growing market for us and we are very pleased to partner with Mall of Qatar to expand the range of retail, café and dining choices that we can offer to customers”, said John Hadden, Senior Vice President of Retail Property at M H Alshaya, in a statement.

The Mall of Qatar, which will cost a reported $1.2 billion, was originally due to open last month. According to local media reports, it is now set to launch by September 2016.