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
582 stories- Culture· MENA
Medina Welcomes First Pilgrims for Hajj Season from Mali
The city of Medina has begun receiving an influx of pilgrims for the Hajj season, marked by the arrival of the first flights from Mali. This surge is facilitated by increased flight operations at Prince Mohammed bin Abdulaziz International Airport, as authorities implement measures to ensure smooth processing for the guests. As the Hajj season progresses, the focus will remain on maintaining operational efficiency and the comfort of pilgrims during their spiritual journey.
3 sourcesMay 6Low
- Culture· MENA
Mecca enhances facilities ahead of Hajj season
The holy sites in Mecca are being developed with new facilities and services in preparation for the upcoming Hajj season. These enhancements, including mist fans and expanded sanitation facilities, are being implemented to ensure a comfortable experience for millions of pilgrims. The long-term implication is a commitment to improving pilgrimage infrastructure, potentially increasing attendance and setting a new standard for future Hajj seasons.
3 sourcesMay 6Low
- Culture· MENA
Death of Hani Shakir, Icon of Arabic Music, Sparks Calls for Public Funeral in Egypt
Hani Shakir, the renowned Egyptian singer, passed away after a health crisis in Paris. His death has led to widespread demands for a public funeral to honor his legacy. As the music community mourns, discussions about his influence on Arabic music and potential tributes are likely to intensify.
4 sourcesMay 6Moderate
- Culture· World
Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences bans AI actors and screenplays from Oscars
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has ruled that only human actors and human-written screenplays are eligible for Academy Awards. This decision is a direct response to the increasing use of AI in film and screenwriting, aiming to preserve the integrity of artistic expression. The long-term implication may set a precedent for how other creative industries navigate the integration of AI technologies in their processes.
3 sourcesMay 6Low
- Culture· World
SAG-AFTRA Reaches Tentative Agreement with Major Studios to Prevent Strike
SAG-AFTRA has announced a tentative four-year agreement with major studios, averting a potential strike. This development follows the resumption of negotiations last week after previous talks had stalled. The agreement is expected to foster stability in Hollywood's production environment and influence future labor relations in the entertainment industry.
4 sourcesMay 6Low
- Culture· World
Saudi Women Enhance Hajj Experience Through Makkah Route Initiative at Istanbul Airport
Saudi women are now playing a vital role in the 'Makkah Route' initiative at Istanbul Airport, providing essential services to Hajj pilgrims. This development is part of the Kingdom's ongoing efforts to streamline the pilgrimage process and improve the overall experience for millions. As the initiative evolves, it is expected to incorporate advanced technologies and expand its reach to other international airports, further enhancing the pilgrimage experience.
4 sourcesMay 5Low
- Culture· UAE
Sheikh Hamdan Launches Urban Greening Initiative in Dubai
Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed has announced a campaign to plant flame trees across Dubai's streets and parks. This initiative is being implemented as the summer season begins, aligning with the city's sustainability goals. The long-term implication is an enhanced urban environment that may foster greater community engagement in environmental efforts.
4 sourcesMay 4Moderate
- Culture· UAE
Indian Expat Wins Dh25 Million in Abu Dhabi Lottery Draw
An Indian expatriate won Dh25 million in the Big Ticket draw held in Abu Dhabi. This significant win highlights the ongoing popularity of lottery draws in the UAE, attracting participants from various nationalities. As lottery events continue to engage a diverse community of expatriates, interest in such draws is likely to grow further in the region.
3 sourcesMay 4Low
- Culture· World
Netflix announces first wide theatrical release for Narnia film
Netflix has announced a full theatrical release for its upcoming film 'Narnia: The Magician’s Nephew'. This decision marks a significant shift in Netflix's distribution strategy, responding to industry demands for theatrical options. The move could influence other streaming platforms to explore similar avenues, potentially revitalizing traditional cinema experiences.
3 sourcesMay 4Low
- Culture· World
Venice Biennale jury resigns over Russia and Israel participation
The international jury of the Venice Biennale has resigned in protest against the participation of Russia and Israel in the event. This decision comes amid ongoing geopolitical tensions and a controversial ban on awards for countries accused of crimes against humanity. The fallout from this resignation may lead to increased scrutiny of international art events and their political implications.
3 sourcesMay 4Low - Culture· World
Oscar statuette of Pavel Talankin recovered after TSA incident at JFK airport
Pavel Talankin's Oscar statuette went missing after TSA agents at JFK airport prohibited him from carrying it on a flight to Germany. The statuette was located by Lufthansa, allowing Talankin to reclaim his prestigious award. This incident may prompt a reevaluation of TSA policies regarding the transport of valuable items for artists and filmmakers.
3 sourcesMay 4Low
- Culture· World
James Holder convicted of rape in high-profile case
James Holder, co-founder of Superdry, has been found guilty of raping a woman after a night out in Cheltenham. The conviction comes as a significant moment in the ongoing discourse around consent and accountability in sexual violence cases. This case may encourage more victims to come forward and push for societal changes regarding attitudes towards sexual violence and consent.
4 sourcesMay 4Low
- Culture· World
Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences updates Oscar eligibility rules to exclude AI actors and writers
The Academy has announced that only human actors and writers are eligible for Oscar nominations, marking a significant shift in its nearly 100-year history. This decision comes as part of a broader effort to emphasize human creativity in the face of advancing technology and to expand the International Film category to include award-winning global cinema. The long-term implication may lead to ongoing debates about the role of artificial intelligence in creative industries and its impact on future artistic recognition.
3 sourcesMay 4Low - Culture· World
Banksy unveils new statue in London addressing political themes
A new Banksy statue depicting a man blinded by a flag was installed in central London. This installation, which appeared unexpectedly, serves as a critique of political figures and their relationship with nationalism. The long-term implication may lead to increased scrutiny of political symbols in art and inspire similar installations by other artists.
4 sourcesMay 4Moderate - Culture· UAE
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum awards Erth Dubai Awards for cultural heritage preservation
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum awarded the Erth Dubai Awards to individuals and institutions for their contributions to cultural documentation. This recognition follows the initiative's receipt of over 25,000 submissions from the community, highlighting a strong engagement in preserving Dubai's heritage. The long-term implication is an ongoing commitment to cultural documentation, with plans to publish 100 books featuring stories from Dubai's residents, thereby enhancing the city's identity and history for future generations.
4 sourcesMay 3Low - Culture· UAE
UAE launches national register for modern architectural heritage
The UAE Ministry of Culture has announced the launch of a national register for modern architectural heritage. This initiative coincides with the first meeting of the National Identity Committee, reflecting the country's commitment to preserving its cultural identity at this pivotal moment. The long-term implication is that this register will enhance awareness and appreciation of modern architecture in the UAE, potentially leading to future collaborations with architects and historians.
3 sourcesMay 3Low
- Culture· World
Amazon explores reboot of 'The Apprentice' with Donald Trump Jr. as potential host
Amazon is considering a reboot of 'The Apprentice' featuring Donald Trump Jr. as the host. This speculation follows a muted endorsement from Donald Trump and is currently in preliminary discussion stages. If realized, the reboot could significantly impact the reality TV landscape and public perception of the Trump family.
3 sourcesMay 3Low - Culture· UAE
UAE Celebrates International Workers' Day with Theme of Unity
On May 1, 2026, the UAE will honor its workforce during International Workers' Day celebrations. This year's theme, 'One Family.. One Nation', emphasizes the critical role of workers in the nation's development at this time of heightened national focus on labor contributions. The long-term implication is expected to be a strengthened commitment to worker rights and welfare, fostering social cohesion and economic growth in the UAE.
3 sourcesMay 2Low
- Culture· UAE
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum awards Erth Dubai Awards for cultural documentation
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum awarded the Erth Dubai Awards to individuals and institutions for their contributions to cultural documentation. This recognition comes after the initiative received over 25,000 submissions from the community, highlighting a strong engagement in preserving Dubai's heritage. The long-term implication is the planned publication of 100 books featuring stories from Dubai residents, fostering a deeper connection to the city's cultural narrative.
4 sourcesMay 2Low
- Culture· UAE
UAE launches national register for modern architectural heritage
The UAE Ministry of Culture has announced the establishment of a national register aimed at safeguarding modern architectural heritage. This initiative coincides with the inaugural meeting of the National Identity Committee, emphasizing the country's commitment to cultural preservation. In the long term, this register is expected to enhance appreciation for the UAE's architectural achievements while balancing modernization with cultural identity.
3 sourcesMay 2Low