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
735 stories- Culture· World
Spotify introduces ticket reservation system for top fans to combat scalping
Spotify has announced a new initiative to reserve concert tickets for top fans based on their engagement with artists. This move is part of Spotify's strategy to enhance fan experiences and reduce ticket scalping, coinciding with a new music licensing deal. As this system is implemented, it may reshape how streaming services engage with live events and influence the broader music industry landscape.
4 sourcesMay 24Low
- Culture· World
JR Unveils Inflatable Art Installation on Historic Pont Neuf Bridge
Parisian artist JR has begun enveloping the historic Pont Neuf bridge in an inflatable cave as part of a new public art installation. This project is a tribute to the artistic legacy of Christo and Jeanne-Claude, coinciding with a growing public interest in contemporary art. The installation is expected to inspire similar artistic endeavors in urban spaces, enhancing community engagement with public art.
4 sourcesMay 24Low
- Culture· UAE
Discovery of Abbasid-era gold jewelry announced in Qassim, Saudi Arabia
A significant collection of Abbasid-era gold jewelry has been discovered at the archaeological site of Diriyyah in Qassim, Saudi Arabia. This find, which includes 100 gold pieces, is part of ongoing excavation efforts that highlight the historical importance of the site. The discovery is expected to enhance cultural tourism and support Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 initiatives focused on preserving its archaeological heritage.
3 sourcesMay 23Low
- Culture· World
Higgsfield AI premieres fully AI-generated film 'Hell Grind' at Cannes
'Hell Grind,' a 95-minute film entirely generated by AI, premiered at the Cannes Film Festival. The film's production, which took only two weeks and cost $500,000, highlights the significant role of AI technology in modern filmmaking. This development may lead to a transformative shift in production processes and economic models within the film industry as AI continues to evolve and gain acceptance among filmmakers and audiences alike.
3 sourcesMay 23Moderate
- Culture· World
Tui Group ends sponsorship of Married At First Sight amid serious allegations of sexual assault
Tui Group has terminated its sponsorship of the reality TV show Married At First Sight following allegations of rape and sexual assault made by contestants. This decision comes in response to growing concerns about participant safety in reality television, particularly after multiple women have come forward with allegations. The long-term implication may lead to increased scrutiny and significant changes in industry practices regarding the welfare of reality show participants.
3 sourcesMay 23Low
- Culture· UAE
UAE municipalities enhance services for Eid al-Adha celebrations
Municipalities in the UAE are implementing measures to enhance services and facilities for Eid al-Adha. This is happening as part of a proactive approach to ensure public safety and improve the holiday experience for residents and visitors. The long-term implication is a strengthened sense of community and increased satisfaction with public services during major holidays.
4 sourcesMay 22Low
- 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 tools in their submissions. This controversy arises as AI detection platforms have flagged certain syntactical features in the winning stories, prompting an investigation by Granta and the Commonwealth Foundation. The long-term implication may involve a reevaluation of submission guidelines and authenticity standards in literary competitions as AI technology continues to influence creative writing.
3 sourcesMay 22Moderate
- 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 historic auction price of $181.2 million at Christie's in New York. This unprecedented sale reflects a surge in demand for abstract expressionist art, occurring as collectors seek high-value investments in the contemporary art market. The long-term implication may be a shift in auction strategies and increased interest in similar high-value artworks.
3 sourcesMay 22Moderate
- Culture· World
Allegations of sexual assault emerge from Married At First Sight UK prompting police investigation
Serious allegations of rape and sexual misconduct have surfaced from the reality show Married At First Sight UK. The immediate trigger for this scrutiny is a BBC Panorama investigation that revealed multiple contestants' claims of assault during filming. This situation is likely to lead to increased regulatory oversight and reforms in participant safety protocols within the reality television industry.
4 sourcesMay 22High
- 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 sourcesMay 21Low
- 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 sourcesMay 21Low
- 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 sourcesMay 21Low
- 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 sourcesMay 21Low
- 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 sourcesMay 21Moderate
- 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 sourcesMay 20Low
- 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 sourcesMay 20Low
- 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 sourcesMay 20Low
- 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 sourcesMay 20Low
- 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 sourcesMay 20Low
- 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 sourcesMay 20Low