Dubai's Tallest And Shortest?

Mohammad Malik Khan stands 2.36 metres (7ft 9ins) tall. At the other end of the tape is Jack Gurung, at just 102cm (3ft 4ins).

"This height might be an advantage at times, but most times it is a disadvantage," said Riaz, 41, who works as head of security at United Hypermarket in Hor Al Anz in Deira.

"I hope my children will grow up to be normal. I want them to have a normal life."

Gurung, 37, who doubles as cashier and waiter at Charlie Parrot’s nightclub in the Oasis Beach Hotel, said he has got used to his short stature, and it only bothers him when he cannot reach something on a high shelf.

The extra attention and interest that once annoyed me now makes me feel extraordinary. Jack Gurung

"I am the only one with abnormal height among all my seven siblings. I know I do not look like normal people, but that doesn’t bother me any more," he said.

"The extra attention and interest that once annoyed me now makes me feel extraordinary."

Both men are used to strangers asking to have their pictures taken with them.

"When I get requests for photos by curious strangers, I am sensitive towards their feelings," said Gurung.

"Rather than expecting people to be sensitive towards me, I have realised that I am different and that consideration should come from me."

Riaz’s great height has taken him to many places.

He was once an actor and a professional wrestler, even leaving his home in Lahore in Pakistan to fight on the professional wrestling circuit in Japan for six years.

"We had to eat 30 eggs for breakfast and half a kilo of uncooked minced mutton every day. I did not enjoy it but then got used to it," he said.

As a wrestler, he fought as the "Raja Lion" in more than 3,000 bouts, winning two belts and a huge trophy after beating Jeet Singh, the "Indian Tiger".

As an actor, he had roles in 25 Lollywood movies, including International Lutera and Sawaal, and even a role in an American film, Final Fight (also titled Blood Fight and Sportfight).

He was offered his current job by friends who manage the supermarket. They thought his dominating presence would discourage troublemakers.

Mohammad Farouk, purchasing manager at the supermarket, said: "Whenever we catch a shoplifter, they usually confess quickly when they see Mohammad."

Gurung’s life has been less glamorous, but no less satisfying.

Like Riaz, the farmer’s son from Nepal was born to average-sized parents. "I have no complaints in life. There are no unfulfilled ambitions," he said.

His job at Charlie Parrot’s nightclub brings him plenty of attention, handsome tips and occasional requests for a dance.

"I send enough money home to take care of my family and the education of my elder child. What more can one ask for?"

* You Speak: We think they could be Dubai's tallest and shortest people. Do you know anybody else? Tell us at news@alnisrmedia.com or send us your photos.