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
Total solar eclipse captivates millions across Europe
A total solar eclipse occurred on August 13, 2026, with totality visible in parts of Iceland and northern Spain. This event marked Spain's first total solar eclipse in over a century, drawing large crowds in cities as people celebrated the celestial phenomenon. The growing public interest in astronomical events suggests that future eclipses will attract even larger audiences and media coverage.
6 sources6d ago
- Culture· UAE
UAE Central Bank Issues Commemorative Coin for International Youth Day
The Central Bank of the UAE has issued a commemorative silver coin to celebrate International Youth Day, recognizing the significant contributions of youth to the nation's development. This initiative is taking place now to empower young people and reinforce their role in shaping the UAE's future. Long-term, this may lead to further initiatives aimed at enhancing youth engagement in the socio-economic landscape of the UAE.
3 sourcesAug 15
- Culture· UAE
UAE Implements New Music Royalty Fee Structure to Support Creative Community
The UAE has introduced a new music royalty fee structure that requires local businesses to pay annual fees ranging from AED 1,500 to AED 50,000. This initiative is aimed at enhancing the competitiveness of the music industry and diversifying the economy at this specific moment. Long-term, this could lead to increased investment in the music sector and a more vibrant cultural scene in the UAE.
3 sourcesAug 15
- Culture· World
Total solar eclipse to occur on August 12, 2026 across Europe and Arctic regions
A total solar eclipse is scheduled for August 12, 2026, with northern Spain experiencing totality while millions in Europe, Canada, and northwest Africa will see a partial eclipse. This event is gaining attention now as it presents a unique opportunity for astronomical observation and public engagement. Long-term, the eclipse may impact solar energy generation in affected regions, prompting discussions on its implications for energy production and environmental awareness.
3 sourcesAug 15
- Culture· World
Total solar eclipse captivates millions in Spain marking rare astronomical event
A total solar eclipse occurred on August 12, 2026, primarily visible in Spain, attracting millions of tourists. This event is significant as it was the first total solar eclipse visible in Europe in nearly 30 years, prompting widespread travel and interest. The successful viewing of this eclipse may inspire increased interest in future astronomical events and exploration of celestial phenomena.
3 sourcesAug 15
- Culture· World
Italian police recover three stolen masterpieces valued at over $10 million
Italian police have successfully recovered three stolen paintings by Cézanne, Renoir, and Matisse, which were taken from the Magnani Rocca Foundation in March. The recovery follows a swift investigation into the theft, which involved nine Moldovan suspects captured on CCTV during the heist. This incident highlights the ongoing challenge of art theft in Europe and may lead to enhanced security measures in museums across the continent.
6 sourcesAug 15
- Culture· World
Spotify to Label AI-Generated Artists with New 'AI Persona' Badge
Spotify has announced it will implement an 'AI Persona' badge to label AI-generated artists starting mid-September. This initiative is driven by the need for transparency in music recommendations as AI-generated content becomes more prevalent. The long-term implication may lead to a shift in how listeners engage with music and influence other platforms to adopt similar measures.
5 sourcesAug 15
- Culture· UAE
Dubai Announces Public Holiday for Prophet Muhammad's Birthday in 2026
The Dubai Government has confirmed a public holiday for the Prophet Muhammad's Birthday on August 28, 2026. This decision aligns with federal regulations and allows both public and private sectors to observe the occasion, creating a three-day weekend for employees. As the holiday approaches, businesses and government entities will likely prepare for the extended weekend, impacting operations and employee schedules.
6 sourcesAug 14
- Culture· MENA
Saudi Arabia launches funding initiative for AI in cultural enterprises
Saudi Arabia has introduced a funding program aimed at supporting cultural projects that integrate artificial intelligence technologies. This initiative is part of the Cultural Development Fund's Numou Incentives and is designed to enhance sustainability and innovation within the cultural sector. The long-term implication is that successful projects could lead to a significant transformation in the cultural landscape of Saudi Arabia, driving further investments and innovations in the sector.
3 sourcesAug 14
- Culture· World
Lucy Davis diagnosed with incurable stage four breast cancer
Lucy Davis has publicly announced her diagnosis of incurable stage four breast cancer, which has metastasized to her bones. This revelation comes 18 months after her initial diagnosis, emphasizing the critical need for awareness of health symptoms. Her situation may inspire increased vigilance regarding health issues among the public and promote early detection efforts.
4 sourcesAug 14
- Culture· World
Trial of Duane Davis for Tupac Shakur's Murder Begins
Jury selection for the murder trial of Duane 'Keffe D' Davis, accused of orchestrating the 1996 murder of rapper Tupac Shakur, has commenced. This significant legal development comes nearly 30 years after Shakur's death, as the case has remained unsolved for decades. The trial's outcome could finally provide closure to a pivotal moment in hip-hop history and influence public perception of unresolved criminal cases.
3 sourcesAug 14
- Culture· UAE
UAE to Open Hajj 2027 Registration on September 14, 2026
The UAE has announced that it will begin accepting registrations for the 2027 Hajj season on September 14, 2026. This initiative is being implemented by the General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments to facilitate the pilgrimage for UAE citizens. The long-term implication is that this move reinforces the UAE government's commitment to supporting its citizens in fulfilling their religious obligations during significant Islamic events.
3 sourcesAug 13
- Culture· World
AI Disruption in Book Market Raises Concerns Over Rare Titles and Translation Quality
Booksellers are increasingly alarmed by AI firms purchasing rare books and inundating the market with subpar translations. This surge is driven by the rapid advancement of AI technologies that facilitate bulk buying and content generation. In the long term, the industry may face a push for new regulations to safeguard literary quality and heritage.
3 sourcesAug 13
- Culture· World
Discovery of 2,100-Year-Old Roman Shipwreck Off Sicily
A Roman shipwreck dating back over 2,000 years was discovered off the Sicilian coast, containing hundreds of ancient wine jars. The discovery was made by divers from Italy's Carabinieri cultural heritage protection squad after receiving a tip from local fishers. This find may provide valuable insights into ancient Roman maritime trade and culture, potentially leading to further archaeological studies and exhibitions of the artifacts.
4 sourcesAug 13
- Culture· World
Jury selection begins for Duane 'Keffe D' Davis in Tupac Shakur murder case
Jury selection has commenced for Duane 'Keffe D' Davis, who is charged with orchestrating the 1996 murder of hip-hop icon Tupac Shakur. This trial is taking place 30 years after the murder, highlighting the enduring public interest and unresolved nature of the case. The outcome of the trial could finally bring closure to one of the most notorious unsolved cases in music history.
4 sourcesAug 13
- Culture· World
Perseid meteor shower peaks alongside total solar eclipse on August 11-12, 2026
The Perseid meteor shower is expected to peak on the night of August 11-12, 2026. This year's event coincides with a total solar eclipse visible in parts of Spain, Iceland, and Greenland, creating optimal viewing conditions. The simultaneous occurrence of these celestial events is likely to enhance public interest in astronomy and skywatching activities.
3 sourcesAug 12
- Culture· World
Total solar eclipse to be visible from northern Spain on August 12, 2026
A total solar eclipse is scheduled to occur on August 12, 2026, with significant visibility across northern Spain. This event is particularly notable as it marks the first total solar eclipse observable from mainland Europe in 20 years, prompting increased interest from tourists and scientists. The long-term implications include potential boosts in tourism and scientific research opportunities in the regions affected by the eclipse.
4 sourcesAug 12
- Culture· UAE
Saudi Arabia excels at International Nuclear Science Olympiad 2026 in Jeddah
Saudi Arabia ranked first in the International Nuclear Science Olympiad 2026, winning two gold medals, one silver, and one bronze. This achievement is a result of the country's commitment to enhancing education in nuclear science and fostering talent among its students. The success is likely to drive further investment in science education, aligning with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 goals for global competitiveness in scientific research and innovation.
3 sourcesAug 11
- Culture· MENA
Saudi Heritage Commission registers 9,586 new urban heritage assets
The Saudi Heritage Commission has added 9,586 architectural heritage assets to the National Register, raising the total to 59,586. This significant expansion is part of ongoing efforts to document and preserve Saudi Arabia's cultural heritage, particularly in regions like Asir. The long-term implication is a potential boost in heritage tourism and increased appreciation for the country's historical architecture.
4 sourcesAug 11
- Culture· UAE
UAE Declares August 28, 2026 as Public Holiday for Prophet Muhammad's Birthday
The UAE Government has officially announced that August 28, 2026, will be a public holiday in honor of the birthday of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). This decision is part of the UAE's ongoing commitment to recognizing significant Islamic dates and enhancing work-life balance for its citizens. In the long term, this may lead to further public holiday announcements, reflecting the UAE's dedication to cultural and religious values.
5 sourcesAug 10