If you had asked me this time last year would I ever consider using an escort, I probably would have laughed in your face and said ‘no way!’.

Little did I know how much that was about to change. I suppose I always had strong pre-conceived notions about escorts, without really understanding what they do. I associated them with images of stupid, trashy women, wearing white stilettos, fake tan and willing to do anything to make a quick buck.

A few months ago, that all changed for me. I was on a business trip to Dubai with a few colleagues. On the first night, I was keen to see the city and asked the guys what they were up to. It was then they told me about Emirates Dating Agencies. They said it so matter-of-factly that I was genuinely shocked! I really couldn’t imagine using Dubai escort services, and I was adamant that I was not going to be dragged into this.

However, as the drinks kept coming, the guys kept talking. Their stories sounded too good to be true, and very far removed from anything I had ever associated with escort services. They told me that the girls were sophisticated, intelligent and beautiful – and they weren’t just there to be dumb playthings. The girls took care of everything for you, from booking clubs and restaurants to accompanying you to meetings, the airport… and of course, the bedroom. What intrigued me most though was that these girls were actually there to spend time with you, and you could get to know them. That made the whole idea seem less… strange.

I decided to give it a go and see what all the fuss was about. At first I was really uncomfortable and even began to panic – what if my date couldn’t speak English? When I met Lisa, all those worries evaporated. She was smart and kind, she made me laugh on the way to the restaurant, and the rest of the night was truly amazing. I was pleasantly surprised and happy to have my opinion of escorts changed after some first hand experience.