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· 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 sourcesMay 20Low
- 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 sourcesMay 20High
- 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 sourcesMay 19Low
- 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 sourcesMay 19Low
- 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 sourcesMay 19Moderate
- Culture· World
John Travolta awarded honorary Palme d'Or at Cannes Film Festival
John Travolta received an honorary Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival, recognizing his significant contributions to cinema. This award coincided with the premiere of his directorial debut, 'Propeller One-Way Night Coach,' highlighting a pivotal moment in his career. The recognition may lead to renewed interest in his future projects and collaborations within the film industry.
3 sourcesMay 19Moderate
- Culture· World
Five Countries Boycott Eurovision Final in Protest Against Israel's Participation
The 2026 Eurovision Song Contest final occurred in Vienna with significant protests as five countries withdrew in opposition to Israel's participation. This boycott is driven by the ongoing conflict in Gaza, reflecting heightened political tensions. The long-term implication suggests that future cultural events may increasingly intertwine with political activism, leading to more protests and boycotts in the entertainment sector.
4 sourcesMay 19Moderate
- Culture· World
Bulgaria wins Eurovision amid historic political boycott over Israel's participation
Bulgaria has won the Eurovision Song Contest 2026, marking its first victory in the competition. This event was overshadowed by the largest political boycott in Eurovision history, with five countries withdrawing in protest against Israel's participation amid the ongoing Gaza conflict. The intersection of music and politics at Eurovision suggests that future contests may continue to be influenced by geopolitical issues and potential boycotts.
3 sourcesMay 19High
- Culture· MENA
UAE Initiates Restoration of Umayyad Mosque in Damascus
The UAE has announced an initiative to restore the historic Umayyad Mosque in Damascus. This project is part of the UAE's broader cultural diplomacy efforts to strengthen ties with Syria and the Arab world. The long-term implication may lead to enhanced cultural exchanges and cooperation between the UAE and Syria.
3 sourcesMay 18Low
- Culture· MENA
Saudi Arabia Raises Film Production Rebate to 60%
Saudi Arabia has increased its film and TV production rebate from 40% to 60% to stimulate its emerging film industry. This decision was announced at the Cannes Film Festival, reflecting the kingdom's ongoing commitment to cultural development following the lifting of a cinema ban in 2017. The long-term implication is a potential surge in international film productions in Saudi Arabia, positioning the country as a significant player in the global film industry.
4 sourcesMay 18Low
- Culture· World
Asghar Farhadi condemns violence in Iran at Cannes Film Festival
Iranian director Asghar Farhadi spoke out against the violence in Iran during a press conference at the Cannes Film Festival. His remarks were triggered by the recent civilian deaths resulting from US and Israeli airstrikes and the Iranian government's repression of protesters. This condemnation may influence international perceptions of the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Iran and prompt further global awareness and action.
5 sourcesMay 18Moderate
- Culture· UAE
Sheikha Latifa inaugurates Museum of Digital Art in Dubai during Art Dubai's 20th edition
Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed has launched the Museum of Digital Art in Dubai, coinciding with the 20th edition of Art Dubai. This initiative is part of Dubai's broader strategy to enhance its cultural landscape and position as a global cultural hub. The long-term implication is expected to be increased international attention and participation in Dubai's cultural initiatives, further solidifying its status in the creative economy.
4 sourcesMay 17
- Culture· MENA
UAE and Saudi Arabia Call for Crescent Moon Sighting to Mark Dhul Hijjah
The UAE Fatwa Council and Saudi Arabia's Supreme Court have urged citizens to sight the crescent moon of Dhul Hijjah on May 17, 2026. This initiative is taking place now to ensure community participation in a significant religious observance that determines the start of Hajj and Eid Al-Adha. The successful sighting will lead to preparations for these important events across the Muslim world.
4 sourcesMay 17
- Culture· MENA
Saudi Arabia Enhances Hajj Preparations for Record Pilgrim Attendance
Saudi Arabia has announced extensive preparations for the upcoming Hajj season, focusing on safety, efficiency, and hospitality for millions of pilgrims. This initiative is driven by the tenth anniversary of Vision 2030, which has significantly improved service delivery and digital infrastructure. The long-term implication is that Saudi Arabia aims to set a global standard for managing large-scale religious events through innovative technologies and comprehensive planning.
4 sourcesMay 16
- Culture· MENA
Saudi Arabia welcomes over 860,000 Hajj pilgrims amid service enhancements
More than 860,000 Hajj pilgrims have arrived in Saudi Arabia, marking a significant increase in attendance this year. This surge is driven by the government's implementation of over 100 initiatives aimed at improving the pilgrimage experience as part of Vision 2030. The ongoing enhancements in services and infrastructure are expected to attract even more pilgrims in future Hajj seasons.
3 sourcesMay 16
- Culture· UAE
Dubai Government Announces Eid Al-Adha Holiday Dates for 2026
The Dubai Government has declared the holiday dates for Eid Al-Adha 2026, spanning from May 25 to May 29. This announcement is timely as it aligns with the significant cultural observance of Arafat Day, enhancing employee welfare. The extended holiday period is expected to foster community spirit and prompt discussions regarding holiday policies in the private sector.
5 sourcesMay 16
- Culture· World
Discovery of 59,000-Year-Old Neanderthal Tooth Reveals Early Dental Practices
Researchers have uncovered a Neanderthal molar in Siberia that shows evidence of dental treatment, marking it as the oldest known instance of intentional dentistry. This finding is significant at this moment as it challenges previous assumptions about the cognitive abilities of Neanderthals and their health care practices. The long-term implication may lead to a reevaluation of early human behavior and capabilities in managing health issues.
4 sourcesMay 16
- Culture· World
Vin Diesel honors Paul Walker at Cannes screening of 'The Fast and the Furious'
Vin Diesel paid an emotional tribute to his late co-star Paul Walker during a midnight screening of 'The Fast and the Furious' at the Cannes Film Festival, marking the film's 25th anniversary. The tribute was triggered by the anniversary celebration and the strong bond Diesel shared with Walker, highlighted by the presence of Walker's daughter, Meadow. This event underscores the lasting legacy of Paul Walker and the deep connections formed within the film community.
3 sourcesMay 16
- Culture· UAE
Sharjah Private Education Authority announces Eid Al Adha holiday schedule for 2026
The Sharjah Private Education Authority has set the Eid Al Adha holiday dates for private schools from May 25 to May 28, 2026. This announcement is timely as families and educational institutions begin planning for the significant religious holiday. The clear scheduling reflects the authority's commitment to facilitating community preparations and underscores the cultural importance of Eid Al Adha in the region.
3 sourcesMay 15Low
- Culture· MENA
Prophet's Mosque enhances accessibility services for elderly and disabled pilgrims during Hajj
The Prophet's Mosque has implemented a comprehensive system of services to assist elderly and disabled pilgrims during the current Hajj season. This initiative is driven by the need to ensure safety and comfort for all visitors amidst the busy pilgrimage period. Long-term, these enhancements may set a precedent for future accessibility policies at religious sites across the region.
3 sourcesMay 15Low