I was on a private custom tour with my local English-speaking guide, Anwar Shah, earlier this month with the expectaion of gleaning a true and authentic experience of life and  local culture in the Emirates.  Since I already had some familiarity with Dubai, I wanted to explore the neighboring Emirates in more depth.  With this in mind, Anwar picked me up at my hotel, arranged all necessary transportation and meals, and brought me into the neighboring Emiirates of Sharjah and Abu Dhabi.  We visitied some famous sites like the Islamic Heritage Museum and Sheikh Zayed Mosque, along with some more off the beaten track finds like the Blue Souk, an authentic Camel Market,  and a 4000ft. climb to the top of the Desert Mountain, Jebel Hafeet, in Al Ain  to enjoy amazing views of the vastness of the Arabian desert.  

Anwar's  timeliness, patience, knowledge, and open personality felt more like I was visiting with a local friend.  I felt perfectly safe throughout my stay and he as a perfec fit to learn and explore more about this area of the world.  I never felt rushed throughout the tour and he ensured that I experienced aspects of local life and culture that i never would have seen on my own.  I highly recommend Anwar as a local guide during your time in the Emirates.