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
410 stories- Culture· UAE
Sharjah City Municipality introduces free parking and extended park hours for Eid Al Adha
Sharjah City Municipality has announced free public parking and extended park hours in preparation for Eid Al Adha. This initiative is aimed at enhancing convenience for residents and visitors during the holiday period. The long-term implication is expected to be increased community engagement and support for local businesses during festive celebrations.
3 sources1h agoLow
- Culture· UAE
Sharjah Ruler Inaugurates Redesigned Al Majarrah Park
His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi inaugurated the redesigned Al Majarrah Park, enhancing its artistic and cultural character. This event is part of Sharjah's broader initiative to promote community engagement and cultural spaces at this specific moment. The long-term implication is that the park is expected to become a central hub for community activities, fostering a vibrant cultural scene in Sharjah.
3 sources1h agoLow
- Culture· UAE
Dubai Police Sets Guinness World Record for Largest Virtual Meeting
Dubai Police organized a virtual meeting attended by 9,348 employees, setting a Guinness World Record. This milestone was achieved during the 'Front Line Heroes' meeting, which aimed to recognize the efforts of police employees during a national crisis. The success of this event may inspire other organizations to leverage technology for large-scale gatherings in the future.
3 sources10h agoLow
- Culture· MENA
Prince Saud bin Bandar Honors 169 Students in Cultural Skills Competition
On May 20, 2026, a ceremony was held to recognize 169 students for their achievements in a cultural skills competition organized by the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Culture. This event reflects a commitment to promoting educational excellence and cultural awareness among youth in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia. The ongoing emphasis on cultural skills is likely to enhance educational standards and foster a generation of culturally aware individuals in the region.
3 sources11h agoLow
- Culture· UAE
Discovery of Abbasid-era gold jewelry announced in Qassim, Saudi Arabia
A significant collection of Abbasid-era gold jewelry was discovered at the archaeological site of Diriyyah in Qassim, Saudi Arabia. This find, which includes 100 gold pieces, is part of ongoing excavation efforts by the Saudi Heritage Commission aimed at preserving the Kingdom's archaeological heritage. The discovery enhances understanding of Saudi Arabia's cultural history and aligns with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030.
3 sources11h agoLow
- Culture· World
Commonwealth Short Story Prize winners face AI authenticity allegations
Three of the five regional winners of the Commonwealth Short Story Prize are under suspicion for potentially using AI chatbots in their writing. This controversy has arisen due to the detection of syntactical features in the winning stories that suggest AI involvement. The literary community may need to adapt to new standards of authorship and originality in the face of AI advancements.
3 sources11h agoLow
- Culture· World
Jackson Pollock's 'Number 7A, 1948' sells for record $181.2 million at Christie's auction
Jackson Pollock's painting 'Number 7A, 1948' has achieved a record sale price of $181.2 million at Christie's auction in New York. This unprecedented sale reflects the current high demand for abstract expressionist art amidst a competitive market. The long-term implication suggests that future auctions may continue to see significant transactions in the high-value art sector.
3 sources11h agoModerate
- Culture· World
Allegations of sexual assault prompt investigations into Married At First Sight UK
Three female contestants from Married At First Sight UK have alleged rape and sexual misconduct against their on-screen husbands. The claims have surfaced following a BBC Panorama investigation, raising serious concerns about participant safety and the responsibilities of Channel 4 and Ofcom. As investigations proceed, the future of the show and broader standards for reality television may be significantly impacted.
6 sources11h agoHigh
- Culture· World
Patrick Bruel Faces Sexual Assault Allegations Amid Political Pressure
French singer and actor Patrick Bruel is currently under investigation for multiple allegations of sexual assault. The immediate trigger for the scrutiny is the recent public accusations from notable figures, including TV presenter Flavie Flament, prompting political calls for him to cancel upcoming concerts. The long-term implications could significantly affect Bruel's career and the broader discourse on sexual assault in the entertainment industry.
3 sources11h agoModerate
- Culture· MENA
Saudi Arabia announces Umrah season calendar for 1448 AH
Saudi Arabia has unveiled the Umrah season calendar for 1448 AH, with the issuance of visas starting on May 31, 2026. This announcement comes as part of the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah's efforts to enhance operational efficiency and improve the pilgrimage experience. The long-term implication is a focus on quality service and adherence to new regulations among service providers as the pilgrimage season approaches.
3 sources1d agoLow
- Culture· MENA
Saudi Arabia announces dates for Arafat Day and Eid Al-Adha
Saudi Arabia's Supreme Court has confirmed the dates for Arafat Day on May 26, 2026, and Eid Al-Adha on May 27, 2026, following the sighting of the crescent moon. This announcement comes as millions of Muslims begin preparations for the Hajj pilgrimage, which is set to start with the first day of Dhul Hijjah on May 18, 2026. The confirmed dates will likely lead to increased focus on Hajj logistics and safety measures as the observance approaches.
3 sources1d agoLow
- Culture· MENA
Saudi Supreme Court Announces Key Dates for Hajj and Eid al-Adha in 2026
The Supreme Court of Saudi Arabia has declared May 18, 2026, as the start of Dhul-Hijjah, with the Day of Arafah on May 26, 2026. This announcement is timely as it allows the Muslim community to prepare for the significant pilgrimage rituals associated with Hajj and Eid al-Adha. The confirmed dates will likely lead to intensified logistical preparations and community gatherings in anticipation of these important religious observances.
5 sources1d agoLow
- Culture· UAE
Dubai Police Warn Against Viral Energy Drink Promotion Videos
Dubai Police have issued a warning about misleading videos that promote excessive consumption of energy drinks. This warning is part of a broader online safety campaign aimed at protecting public health, particularly among younger audiences. The long-term implication is a potential increase in regulations regarding the promotion of energy drinks and a heightened focus on responsible media consumption.
3 sources1d agoLow
- Culture· MENA
Prominent Saudi Journalist Mohammed Ali Hafiz Passes Away
Mohammed Ali Hafiz, a leading figure in Saudi journalism and founder of 'Asharq Al-Awsat', died at the age of 89. His passing comes as the media landscape in Saudi Arabia reflects on his significant contributions and legacy. This event may catalyze discussions on the future of journalism in the region and inspire new generations of journalists.
3 sources1d agoLow
- Culture· MENA
Oman and UAE Announce Eid Al Adha Holidays for 2026
Oman and the UAE have officially set the dates for Eid Al Adha holidays from May 26 to May 29, 2026. This announcement follows Saudi Arabia's confirmation of the start of Dhul Hijjah, which marks the beginning of the Hajj season. The alignment of holiday dates across the Gulf region is likely to enhance travel and tourism activities during this festive period.
3 sources1d agoLow
- Culture· MENA
Kuwait and UAE Announce Eid Al-Adha Holidays for 2026
Kuwait has declared a six-day holiday for the public sector, while the UAE has confirmed specific holiday dates for private sector employees. This announcement comes as Eid Al-Adha approaches, allowing employees to plan their celebrations and travel. The confirmed holiday dates are expected to boost travel and tourism activities in the region as families prepare to reunite.
5 sources1d agoLow
- Culture· World
Bulgaria wins first Eurovision Song Contest with Dara's 'Bangaranga'
Bulgaria achieved its first victory in the Eurovision Song Contest with Dara's song 'Bangaranga'. This historic win comes amid protests regarding Israel's participation, highlighting the intersection of culture and politics at the event. The long-term implication may be a surge in international interest in Bulgarian music and cultural exports following this significant achievement.
5 sources1d agoHigh
- Culture· MENA
Saudi Grand Mufti Begins Hajj Duties in Makkah
Sheikh Saleh Al-Fawzan has officially commenced his Hajj-related responsibilities in Makkah, leading a session of the Permanent Committee for Fatwas. This event is timely as the first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah are recognized for their spiritual significance, prompting the Grand Mufti to encourage good deeds among Muslims. The long-term implication is an enhanced spiritual preparation for pilgrims, fostering a deeper connection to their faith during the Hajj season.
3 sources2d agoLow
- Culture· UAE
Saudi Arabia launches interactive 3D maps for pilgrims at holy mosques
The General Authority for the Care of the Two Holy Mosques has introduced interactive 3D maps to assist pilgrims in navigating the holy sites. This initiative is part of broader efforts to enhance visitor services and improve access to sacred locations. The long-term implication may lead to further technological advancements in religious tourism, setting a precedent for future innovations in the sector.
4 sources2d agoLow
- Culture· World
Javier Bardem advocates for Palestine at Cannes Film Festival
Javier Bardem has publicly voiced support for Palestine during a press conference at the Cannes Film Festival, marking a notable shift in Hollywood's engagement with political issues. This moment is catalyzed by a growing acceptance of political discourse within the industry, as Bardem asserts that his activism has not negatively impacted his career. The long-term implication suggests that more artists may feel empowered to address controversial topics, potentially reshaping industry norms and audience expectations.
3 sources2d agoModerate