Sydney Blank is an American model making waves in Dubai and beyond. As the face of the first modeling agency in Saudi Arabia, she is at the forefront of the region’s evolving fashion industry. Now, with an exciting fashion project set to launch in 2025, she continues to push boundaries in both modeling and entrepreneurship
Sydney, you are a well-known American model who is now thriving in Dubai. You have become the face of the first modeling agency in Saudi Arabia. In your opinion, how is the attitude towards modeling changing in the Middle East?
I feel very positive about how modeling and talent are evolving in the Middle East. Since my first visit to the GCC in 2017, I’ve witnessed tremendous change. The region has increasingly embraced modeling and influencing as legitimate career paths, introducing model visas and influencer licenses, which marks significant progress.
You have traveled extensively around the world—which city has surprised you the most in terms of the fashion industry, and why? If you could create a campaign with any brand in the world, which one would it be and why?
The city that has surprised me the most in terms of the fashion industry is definitely Riyadh. Every client I’ve worked with there has impeccable fashion sense, always arriving in stunning outfits and jewelry.
If I could create a campaign for any brand, it would be Chanel. I’ve admired the brand since childhood, and I’ve been fortunate to attend several of their shows and events over the years. Their attention to detail and runway presentations are simply unmatched.
As a model, you have launched your own cosmetics company. What skills have helped you manage your time and balance modeling with entrepreneurship? Do you have any rituals or techniques that help you maintain balance between your career, business, and personal life?
The key skills that help me balance my time between modeling and entrepreneurship are waking up early and keeping my schedule meticulously organised. I rely on my calendar, where I write down everything I need to accomplish for the week. I wake up around 8 AM, Monday to Friday, and go to bed around 10 PM, maintaining a structured work routine. I also meet with my Pilates trainer to stay disciplined. This gives me time to unwind on weekends, spend time with friends, and focus on self-care.
Lately, however, my weekends have been busier due to an exciting project I’ve been working on in the fashion space, which is set to launch in summer 2025.
How has working as a model influenced your perception of beauty and skincare? Were there moments when you reconsidered your beliefs?
Modeling has shaped my perception of beauty and skincare since I started at the age of 14. Makeup artists and photographers often told me that having clear skin makes their job easier, and this advice has always stuck with me. As a result, I make sure to visit my dermatologist twice a year.
I’ve never reconsidered this habit because seeing a dermatologist isn’t just about achieving flawless skin—it’s also a crucial step in preventing serious health issues, such as skin cancer.
What is the most unexpected lesson you have learned from running a business in Dubai? In your opinion, what beauty industry niches are still unexplored and could become trends in the coming years?
The most unexpected lesson I’ve learned from running a business in Dubai is how strict the country is when it comes to licensing, labeling, and shipping regulations. Navigating these requirements has been an important learning experience.
In my opinion, one beauty industry niche that remains largely unexplored in the region—but has great potential—is CBD-based body and skincare treatments. It’s a powerful natural remedy with numerous benefits, and I believe it could gain significant traction in the coming years.
