Model Size Requirements: What Dubai Agencies Really Want in 2025

When people ask about model size requirements, the specific physical standards used by modeling agencies to cast talent. Also known as model body standards, it's not just about being tall or thin—it’s about fitting a market that’s shifting fast. In Dubai, these rules aren’t set in stone. They’re shaped by fashion shows, luxury brands, and the growing demand for diversity in campaigns. While traditional agencies still push for certain numbers, the industry is quietly opening up to more body types, especially in commercial and beauty work.

Most high-fashion agencies in Dubai still look for models around 5'9" to 6'0", the typical height range for runway models in global markets, with weights between 110 and 130 lbs. But that’s not the whole story. For commercial modeling—think ads for phones, hotels, or skincare—the focus shifts to face, expression, and relatability. A model who’s 5'6" and curvy might book more gigs than a 6'0" runway model if she connects with the audience. Plus-size models, models who wear sizes 12 and up and are booked for inclusive campaigns are no longer rare in Dubai. Brands like L’Oréal, Revlon, and local luxury retailers now actively seek them. The same goes for model height and weight, the two most commonly tracked metrics in casting calls. Agencies don’t just want a number—they want someone who looks healthy, moves well, and can handle long days on set.

What you won’t find in any official handbook is the real reason some models get booked and others don’t. It’s not just about measurements. It’s about how you carry yourself, how you take direction, and whether you fit the vibe of the brand. A model with perfect stats might get passed over because she looks stiff in photos. Another with average height and a natural smile might land a six-figure campaign. Dubai’s market is unique—it’s a mix of global trends and local tastes. You need to stand out without trying too hard.

If you’re thinking about modeling in Dubai, stop obsessing over the scale. Look at the campaigns that are running right now. Notice who’s in them. Who’s being paid? Who’s smiling? Who’s clearly not a size zero but still owns the frame? That’s your real guide. The old rules are fading. The new ones are written in bookings, not body metrics. Below, you’ll find real stories, real numbers, and real advice from models and agencies working in Dubai today. No fluff. No myths. Just what actually matters.