Bio
Maisa is CMO at A47 Media, leading the strategic marketing and growth function alongside business development. She shares opinion pieces on the GCC marketing community.
Editorial Responsibility
Responsible for how A47 shows up in the world, including the brand presence, building equity and community.
Previous experience · 16+ years
- · Former Head of Influencers at More
- · Ex Head of Strategy and Business Development at Empact Middle East
Education
BA Spanish & Literature, University of Jordan
Areas of expertise
Categories overseen
Stories from Maisa Aloul’s desk
530 stories- Culture· World
Vietnamese police dismantle illegal cat meat trade ring rescuing over 400 cats
Vietnamese police have rescued more than 400 cats from a crime ring involved in the illegal cat meat trade in Ho Chi Minh City. This operation was triggered by a recent surge in pet thefts reported by animal welfare groups. The long-term implication may lead to increased pressure on Vietnamese authorities to strengthen animal welfare laws and combat pet theft more effectively.
3 sources13h agoLow
- Culture· UAE
Dubai and Abu Dhabi Implement Free Public Parking for Hijri New Year
Dubai and Abu Dhabi have announced free public parking in celebration of the Hijri New Year holiday. This initiative is being implemented to facilitate transportation for residents and visitors during the festive period. The long-term implication may lead to changes in holiday transportation policies across the UAE.
4 sources1d agoLow
- Culture· World
Annual replacement of the Kaaba's covering marks significant religious event for Muslims
The Kaaba's covering was ceremonially replaced on June 15, 2026, in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, attended by numerous worshippers. This annual tradition coincides with the start of the new Hijri year, emphasizing its importance in the Islamic faith. The event reinforces the cultural and spiritual significance of the Kaaba, fostering unity and reverence among Muslims worldwide.
3 sources1d agoLow
- Culture· MENA
20 million Egyptian students participate in record-breaking Arab Reading Challenge
20 million Egyptian students have participated in the 10th Arab Reading Challenge, marking a historic achievement for literacy in the region. This surge in participation is driven by a concerted effort to promote reading among Arab youth, supported by both the Ministry of Education and Al-Azhar Al-Sharif schools. The long-term implication is a potential increase in similar educational initiatives across the Arab world, fostering a culture of reading and learning for future generations.
4 sources1d agoLow
- Culture· World
David Beckham honored with Hollywood Walk of Fame star during 2026 World Cup opening
On June 13, 2026, David Beckham received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame coinciding with the kickoff of the 2026 World Cup in the United States. This recognition highlights Beckham's significant crossover success from sports to entertainment, celebrated by numerous celebrities at the event. The ongoing World Cup is expected to further spotlight the intersection of sports and celebrity culture, with more high-profile appearances anticipated.
4 sources1d agoHigh
- Culture· World
UK Celebrates King Charles III's Official Birthday with Trooping the Colour Ceremony
The Trooping the Colour ceremony was held to mark King Charles III's official birthday. This event is taking place now as a continuation of a longstanding British tradition celebrating the monarchy. The long-term implication is that as King Charles III's reign progresses, such ceremonies will likely evolve while maintaining their historical significance in British culture.
3 sources1d agoLow
- Culture· World
Steven Spielberg's 'Disclosure Day' Achieves $92.9 Million Opening Weekend
Steven Spielberg's latest film, 'Disclosure Day', has debuted strongly at the box office, earning approximately $92.9 million globally in its opening weekend. The film's success is attributed to its exploration of UFOs and a star-studded cast, appealing to a diverse audience. If it maintains momentum, 'Disclosure Day' could redefine blockbuster filmmaking for original titles in the current competitive landscape.
4 sources1d agoModerate
- Culture· World
Oliver Tree Dies in Helicopter Crash in Brazil
Oliver Tree, a 32-year-old musician, died in a helicopter crash in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, resulting from a mid-air collision that killed a total of six people. The incident occurred shortly after Tree had performed in South America, highlighting the risks faced by international touring artists. This tragedy may lead to increased scrutiny and changes in safety protocols for artists traveling in high-risk areas.
17 sources1d agoLow
- Culture· UAE
UAE leaders extend New Year greetings emphasizing stability and prosperity
UAE leaders, including President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed and Vice President Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, celebrated the Islamic New Year with messages of goodwill. This moment is marked by a cultural and religious significance that resonates deeply within the UAE and the wider Islamic community. The leadership's focus on unity and progress suggests forthcoming initiatives aimed at fostering community growth throughout the year.
4 sources2d agoLow
- Culture· World
Taylor Swift becomes youngest inductee into Songwriters Hall of Fame
Taylor Swift was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame, making her the youngest woman to receive this honor. This milestone is occurring now as recognition of her significant contributions to contemporary music and her influence as a songwriter. Her induction is likely to inspire future generations of female songwriters and may lead to new opportunities and collaborations in the music industry.
4 sources2d agoVery High
- Culture· World
Obsession sets record as highest-grossing film festival acquisition and outperforms major blockbusters
'Obsession' has achieved unprecedented box office success, grossing over $165 million in the U.S. and surpassing a new Star Wars film. This surge in popularity is driven by its unique appeal to Gen Z audiences and strong word-of-mouth, leading to five consecutive weekends of growth. The film's success may indicate a shift towards low-budget, innovative storytelling in the horror genre, potentially reshaping industry dynamics and audience preferences.
3 sources2d agoModerate
- Culture· World
Princess Bajrakitiyabha of Thailand passes away after prolonged coma
Princess Bajrakitiyabha died in a Bangkok hospital after being in a coma since December 2022. Her death has been triggered by complications from heart problems, leading to widespread mourning across Thailand. In the long term, her legacy is expected to inspire continued charitable initiatives and public remembrance in the nation.
3 sources2d agoHigh
- Culture· World
David Hockney, Renowned British Artist, Passes Away at 88
David Hockney, a leading figure in contemporary art, died at his home in London on June 11, 2026. His death comes as tributes from the art community highlight his significant impact on the cultural landscape over decades. The art world anticipates a renewed interest in Hockney's works, potentially influencing future exhibitions and the market for contemporary art.
15 sources2d agoHigh
- Culture· World
Oliver Tree Dies in Helicopter Crash in Brazil
On June 14, 2026, musician Oliver Tree was killed in a mid-air collision involving two helicopters over Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The crash occurred during his world tour, highlighting the risks associated with air travel for artists. This tragic event is likely to prompt discussions on safety regulations for air travel in the entertainment industry.
10 sources2d agoLow - Culture· World
Patrick Bruel Charged with Rape and Sexual Assault Amid #MeToo Reckoning
French pop icon Patrick Bruel has been charged with multiple sexual offenses following allegations from nearly two dozen women, some dating back to the 1990s. This significant legal action is occurring now as part of the ongoing scrutiny of high-profile figures in the entertainment industry due to the #MeToo movement. The outcome of this case could reshape the cultural conversation around sexual misconduct in France and impact the entertainment industry at large.
3 sources3d agoHigh
- Culture· World
Directors Guild of America Reaches Tentative Four-Year Agreement with Major Studios
The Directors Guild of America has reached a tentative four-year agreement with major studios and streaming services. This development follows extensive labor negotiations in the entertainment industry aimed at addressing evolving production challenges. The agreement may set a precedent for future labor relations and negotiations within the sector.
3 sources4d agoModerate
- Culture· World
BBC cancels Doctor Who Christmas special and announces showrunner departure
The BBC has canceled the planned Doctor Who Christmas special and Russell T Davies is leaving the series. This decision follows a period of declining viewership and uncertainty regarding the show's direction. The future of Doctor Who remains uncertain as it seeks new leadership and direction, potentially leading to a significant overhaul of the franchise.
3 sources4d agoLow
- Culture· World
Donald Trump faces backlash over use of Japanese anime characters in social media posts
Donald Trump is under fire for incorporating Japanese manga and anime characters in his social media, leading to a petition with 20,000 signatures demanding he stop. This controversy has arisen due to concerns over cultural appropriation and the unauthorized use of beloved characters like Naruto and Pikachu. The situation may prompt a response from Trump or his administration, influencing how public figures engage with cultural content in the future.
3 sources4d agoModerate
- Culture· World
Pope Leo XIV blesses final tower of Sagrada Família in Barcelona
Pope Leo XIV blessed the newly completed central tower of the Sagrada Família in Barcelona. This event marks a significant milestone in the basilica's 144-year construction, coinciding with the centenary of Antoni Gaudí's death. The completion is expected to enhance the basilica's status as a cultural and religious landmark, potentially increasing its appeal to visitors and pilgrims alike.
4 sources4d agoLow
- Culture· World
Martin Scorsese faces backlash from Art Directors Union over AI endorsement
Martin Scorsese's recent endorsement of a generative AI company has provoked significant criticism from the Art Directors Union. This backlash is occurring now due to Scorsese's historical stance on preserving human artistry in filmmaking, which many view as compromised by his support for AI technology. The long-term implication may lead to intensified discussions on the ethical integration of AI in the creative industries and potential shifts in industry standards.
3 sources4d agoModerate