Kinetic and reactor modeling of catalytic reforming of naphtha is described in the present work. The development of a kinetic reforming model is reported with detail. The validation of the developed kinetic model with bench-scale isothermal reactor experiments is also carried out. The kinetic and reactor models are applied for the simulation of commercial semi-regenerative reforming unit. The effect of benzene precursors in the feed in both laboratory and commercial reactors is also simulated, and the use of the reactor model to predict other process parameters is highlighted. (C) 2011 Published by Elsevier Ltd.