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
816 stories- Culture· MENA
Assala Nasri Performs in Damascus After 15 Years of Exile
Assala Nasri returned to the stage in Damascus on September 17, 2026, marking her first concert in Syria since her exile following the 2011 uprising. This event was triggered by the fall of the Bashar al-Assad regime in December 2024, which allowed her to perform again under the new authorities. The concert symbolizes a cultural reconnection and may lead to a resurgence of artistic expression in post-conflict Syria.
3 sourcesSep 21Low
- Culture· World
Ireland's RTÉ Announces Second Consecutive Eurovision Boycott Over Gaza Conflict
On September 17, 2026, Ireland's national broadcaster RTÉ confirmed its boycott of the 2027 Eurovision Song Contest, marking its second consecutive year of non-participation. This decision is driven by ongoing humanitarian concerns in Gaza, including significant civilian casualties and restricted media access. The long-term implication may lead to increased pressure on the European Broadcasting Union to reconsider Israel's participation in future contests amid rising calls for accountability and reform.
4 sourcesSep 20Low
- Culture· World
Bonnie Greer, influential British-American cultural figure, passes away at 77
Bonnie Greer, a prominent British-American playwright and cultural critic, died on 15 September 2026 at the age of 77 after a brief illness. Her death comes at a time when her contributions to discussions on race, culture, and politics are increasingly relevant in contemporary society. The long-term implication of her passing may lead to renewed focus on her works and the themes she championed in the arts and public discourse.
3 sourcesSep 19Low
- Culture· World
Macklemore Donates $1 Million to Palestinian Relief and Challenges Robert Kraft
On September 16, 2026, rapper Macklemore pledged to donate $1 million from his tour earnings to six Palestinian relief organizations and invited Robert Kraft to match the donation. This announcement followed Macklemore's removal from the tour due to pro-Palestinian statements that raised concerns among venue operators, including Kraft. The long-term implication may involve increased celebrity involvement in humanitarian efforts amid ongoing geopolitical tensions in the region.
3 sourcesSep 19Low
- Culture· World
Ed Sheeran's Loop Tour Faces Major Disruption as Supporting Acts Withdraw in Solidarity with Macklemore
On September 15, 2026, four supporting acts withdrew from Ed Sheeran's Loop Tour in solidarity with rapper Macklemore following his removal by promoters after pro-Palestinian statements. This mass withdrawal occurred immediately after Sheeran's statement addressing the situation, highlighting artists' opposition to silencing political voices. The long-term implication may involve increased scrutiny on the intersection of music, politics, and artist expression in concert settings.
16 sourcesSep 19Moderate
- Culture· World
Documentary on Salman Rushdie's Recovery from 2022 Stabbing Highlights Free Speech Issues
The upcoming documentary 'Knife: The Attempted Murder of Salman Rushdie' details the author's recovery from a brutal stabbing incident that occurred on August 12, 2022. This film is being released now as a response to ongoing global discussions about free speech and the legacy of threats against authors stemming from historical events like the 1989 fatwa against Rushdie. The long-term implication is a renewed focus on the protection of free speech and the resilience of artistic expression in the face of extremism.
3 sourcesSep 19Low
- Culture· World
British Actress Stephanie Cole Passes Away at 84
Stephanie Cole, a celebrated British actress known for her roles in Coronation Street and Waiting for God, died on September 18, 2026, at the age of 84. Her death follows a prolonged battle with Alzheimer’s disease, as confirmed by her agent in a family statement. The long-term implication of her passing is a renewed focus on the impact of Alzheimer's and the importance of mental health advocacy in the entertainment industry, reflecting on her charitable contributions throughout her career.
3 sourcesSep 19Moderate
- Culture· World
Earl Spencer Claims King Charles III Sounded Elated After Princess Diana's Death
Excerpts from Charles Spencer's upcoming memoir allege that King Charles III appeared 'giddily elated' during a phone call to Spencer on the night of Princess Diana's death in 1997. This revelation comes as the memoir is set to be released shortly, prompting Buckingham Palace to issue a rebuttal attributing the claims to grief-induced memory distortions. The long-term implication may involve renewed scrutiny of royal family dynamics and public perception of King Charles's past actions regarding Diana's death.
11 sourcesSep 19Moderate
- Culture· UAE
Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed Awards Arab Social Media Pioneers at 2026 Summit
On 17 September 2026, Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum presided over the Arab Social Media Pioneers Award ceremony in Dubai. This event is part of Dubai's strategy to enhance its position as a regional media hub and promote positive digital content. The recognition of influential Arab creators is expected to further encourage responsible social media engagement and innovation in the region.
5 sourcesSep 18Low
- Culture· World
Matthew Rhys Makes Emmy History with Double Win at 2026 Awards
Matthew Rhys achieved a historic double Emmy win on September 14, 2026, becoming the first performer to win two lead acting awards in a single night. This unprecedented success was triggered by his standout performances in Netflix's The Beast in Me and Apple TV+'s Widow's Bay, which resonated with audiences and critics alike. The long-term implication is a potential shift in how actors are recognized across multiple genres, possibly influencing future award nominations and performances in the industry.
3 sourcesSep 18Low
- Culture· World
Ed Sheeran's Loop Tour Faces Major Disruption as Supporting Acts Withdraw in Solidarity with Macklemore
On September 15, 2026, four supporting acts withdrew from Ed Sheeran's North and South American Loop Tour dates in solidarity with rapper Macklemore. This withdrawal was triggered by Macklemore's removal from the tour following his pro-Palestinian comments during performances, which led to objections from venues and promoters. The long-term implication may involve increased scrutiny on artists' political expressions and potential cancellations affecting the music industry and fans alike.
19 sourcesSep 18Moderate - Culture· World
Bob Mackie, Iconic Fashion Designer, Passes Away at 87
On September 14, 2026, renowned fashion and costume designer Bob Mackie died at the age of 87 due to pneumonia. His passing comes after a prolific career that shaped the visual landscape of entertainment, particularly in the 1970s and 1980s. The long-term implication of his death is a potential shift in the fashion industry as it reflects on the legacy of theatrical costume design and the influence of celebrity culture.
3 sourcesSep 17Low
- Culture· World
Supporting artists withdraw from Ed Sheeran's US tour following Macklemore's removal over pro-Palestinian remarks
All remaining supporting artists withdrew from Ed Sheeran's US tour after Macklemore was removed from the lineup due to his pro-Palestinian statements. The immediate trigger for this mass withdrawal was the backlash against Macklemore's remarks during his performances, which led to pressure from venue owners and the tour promoter. This incident highlights the growing tensions in the entertainment industry regarding political expression and may lead to increased scrutiny of artists' freedom to advocate for social issues in the future.
3 sourcesSep 17High
- Culture· World
May el-Toukhy Wins Venice Golden Lion for 'Woman Unknown'
The film 'Woman Unknown' directed by Egyptian-Danish filmmaker May el-Toukhy won the Golden Lion for Best Film at the Venice International Film Festival. This recognition comes amid ongoing discussions about gender equity in filmmaking, highlighting the systemic underrepresentation of women directors. The win is likely to enhance visibility for regional filmmakers and cross-cultural narratives in international cinema.
4 sourcesSep 15Low
- Culture· World
Celine Dion Makes Emotional Concert Return in Paris After Six-Year Hiatus
Celine Dion returned to the concert stage on September 12, 2026, performing her first full concert in six years at Plenitude Arena in Nanterre, France. This comeback follows her battle with stiff-person syndrome and a series of prior cancellations, marking a significant moment for both her and her fans. The long-term implication is a potential resurgence in her career and increased interest in her music, particularly in regions like the UAE where her fanbase remains strong.
11 sourcesSep 15Moderate
- Culture· UAE
Abu Dhabi International Book Fair 2026 Opens with 95 Nations Participating
The 35th Abu Dhabi International Book Fair commenced on September 13, 2026, featuring exhibitors from 95 countries and a focus on Balkan culture. This event is triggered by the UAE's designation of 2026 as the Year of the Family, aiming to enhance cultural exchange and family engagement. Long-term, the fair is expected to solidify Abu Dhabi's position as a global hub for knowledge exchange and cultural diplomacy.
4 sourcesSep 14Low
- Culture· World
United States Commemorates 25th Anniversary of September 11 Attacks with Nationwide Ceremonies
The United States observed the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks with ceremonies held at key sites and across the nation. This commemoration was triggered by the significant milestone, prompting reflections on the enduring impact of the attacks and the resilience of the nation. Long-term, these observances may influence ongoing discussions about national security and collective memory in American society.
5 sourcesSep 14Low
- Culture· UAE
Dubai Films Forum 2026 Establishes Emirate as a Creative Production Leader
The Dubai Films Forum, scheduled for September 15–17, 2026, aims to position Dubai as a global hub for creative production by bringing together key figures from the cinema, drama, and music industries. This initiative is driven by the need to adapt to industry transformations accelerated by geopolitical dynamics and the rise of digital platforms and AI. Long-term, this forum is expected to enhance Dubai's media ecosystem, fostering local talent and storytelling while connecting them to international markets.
4 sourcesSep 13Low
- Culture· World
Universal Music Group and ElevenLabs Announce Strategic Partnership for AI Music Platform
Universal Music Group and ElevenLabs have formed a multi-year licensing agreement to develop an AI-powered music creation platform that allows fans to remix and reinterpret UMG's catalog. This collaboration is driven by the music industry's shift towards structured licensing agreements that prioritize artist consent and compensation in response to previous copyright disputes. The long-term implication is a potential transformation in how music is created and consumed, emphasizing fan participation and responsible AI use in the industry.
3 sourcesSep 13Moderate
- Culture· World
Drone Light Installation Commemorates 25th Anniversary of 9/11 Attacks
On the evening of September 9, 2026, a drone light installation over New York Harbor recreated the outlines of the Twin Towers to honor the victims of the September 11 attacks. This event was organized in collaboration with 9/11 families, survivors, and first responders, marking a significant public tribute as the 25th anniversary approaches. The long-term implication is a continued evolution of public memory and commemoration practices surrounding the 9/11 attacks, fostering unity and reflection in society.
3 sourcesSep 13Low