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
736 stories- Culture· World
James Holder convicted of rape in Cheltenham
James Holder, co-founder of Superdry, has been found guilty of raping a woman after a night out in Cheltenham. The conviction follows a court ruling on May 1, 2026, stemming from an incident in May 2022 where Holder ignored the victim's pleas to stop. This case highlights ongoing societal issues regarding sexual violence and accountability, potentially prompting further discussions within the fashion industry and beyond.
4 sourcesMay 2High
- Culture· World
Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences Updates Oscar Eligibility Rules to Include International Features and AI Guidelines
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has revised its eligibility rules for the 99th Academy Awards, allowing top winners from six major film festivals to qualify directly for Best International Feature nominations. This change is driven by a desire to globalize the awards process and address concerns regarding AI's role in filmmaking, emphasizing the need for human authorship. In the long term, these updates may reshape the landscape of international cinema and influence how AI is integrated into creative processes.
9 sourcesMay 2High
- Culture· World
Taylor Swift's TAS Rights Management Files Trademark Applications to Protect Against AI Exploitation
On April 24, 2026, Taylor Swift's company TAS Rights Management filed three trademark applications with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office for her voice clips and onstage image. This move is prompted by the rising threat of AI-generated deepfakes that exploit celebrity likenesses, highlighting gaps in existing copyright protections. The long-term implication is a potential shift in intellectual property law as more celebrities seek similar protections against digital impersonation and misuse.
7 sourcesMay 1Low
- Culture· UAE
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum awards Erth Dubai Awards for cultural heritage preservation
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum honored winners of the Erth Dubai Awards, recognizing significant contributions to the documentation of Dubai's cultural and social heritage. This initiative has gained momentum with over 25,000 community submissions, reflecting a strong commitment to preserving the city's identity. The long-term implication is the anticipated publication of 100 books featuring residents' stories, further enhancing Dubai's cultural narrative and community engagement.
5 sourcesApr 30Low
- Culture· World
Venice Biennale jury resigns over Russia's participation controversy
The entire international jury of the Venice Biennale has resigned amid a dispute over Russia's participation in the upcoming exhibition. This decision follows backlash from the Italian government and the European Commission, escalating tensions over the event's integrity. The resignation may lead to further controversies and challenges for the Venice Biennale as it approaches its opening date.
4 sourcesApr 30Moderate - Culture· World
Spotify launches artist verification badges to combat AI-generated content
Spotify has announced the rollout of artist verification badges to help distinguish genuine artists from AI-generated content. This initiative is being implemented now in response to the growing concerns over impersonation and the rise of artificial intelligence in music creation. The long-term implication is that this verification system may set a new standard for authenticity in the music industry, influencing how artists are perceived on streaming platforms.
5 sourcesApr 30Moderate
- Culture· UAE
UAE schools resume outdoor activities after seven-week suspension due to conflicts
Schools in the United Arab Emirates have announced the resumption of outdoor activities after a seven-week hiatus due to recent conflicts. This decision comes with specific safety protocols to ensure the well-being of students. The long-term implication is a gradual return to normalcy in the educational environment, with a focus on monitoring the effectiveness of these safety measures.
3 sourcesApr 30Low
- Culture· MENA
Saudi Minister of Tourism Inspects Pilgrim Accommodations Ahead of Hajj
Saudi Arabia's Minister of Tourism, Ahmed Al-Khateeb, inspected hospitality facilities in Makkah to ensure readiness for the upcoming Hajj season. This inspection is prompted by the addition of over 566,000 beds to the hospitality sector through a new licensing service aimed at improving service quality. The long-term implication is a more comfortable experience for millions of pilgrims, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030's goals for tourism enhancement.
3 sourcesApr 30Low
- Culture· World
AI Used to Digitally Reconstruct Face of Pompeii Eruption Victim
Archaeologists have successfully utilized artificial intelligence to create a digital reconstruction of a victim's face from the AD 79 eruption of Mount Vesuvius. This groundbreaking application of AI in archaeology is occurring now due to advancements in technology and support from the Italian Culture Ministry. The long-term implication is that this method may lead to further discoveries and enhanced understanding of historical events and victims of natural disasters.
4 sourcesApr 30Low
- Culture· World
Michael Jackson biopic sets box office record and boosts music streams
The Michael Jackson biopic has achieved a record-breaking global box office gross of $217 million during its opening weekend. This surge in box office success has coincided with a 95% increase in streams of Jackson's music, reflecting renewed interest in his catalog. The film's performance may lead to a wave of new biographical projects centered on iconic musicians, reshaping their legacies in popular culture.
4 sourcesApr 30High
- Culture· World
Taylor Swift's TAS Rights Management Files Trademark Applications to Protect Voice and Image from AI Misuse
On April 24, 2026, TAS Rights Management filed three trademark applications with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office to protect specific soundbites of Taylor Swift's voice and an iconic image from her Eras Tour. This move is prompted by the increasing misuse of AI technology to create unauthorized deepfakes exploiting her likeness and voice. The long-term implication may lead to a new precedent in intellectual property law, enabling celebrities to assert federal claims against AI-generated infringements more effectively.
14 sourcesApr 30Moderate - Culture· UAE
UAE Enters Traditional Summer Season Kannat Al Thuraya
The UAE officially begins its summer season today with the onset of Kannat Al Thuraya. This seasonal marker, recognized by the Emirates Astronomy Society, signifies a transition to rising temperatures and drier conditions. As the summer progresses, residents should prepare for increasingly hot and dry weather, impacting daily life and outdoor activities.
3 sourcesApr 29Low
- Culture· MENA
Saudi Arabia awards contract for construction of Contemporary Art Museum in Diriyah
A contract for the construction of the Saudi Contemporary Art Museum has been awarded for 1.84 billion SAR. This initiative is part of Saudi Arabia's broader efforts to enhance its cultural landscape and promote cultural tourism at this specific moment. The museum is expected to attract both local and international visitors, significantly enriching the cultural scene in the region over the long term.
3 sourcesApr 29Low
- Culture· World
Renowned Indian photographer Raghu Rai passes away at 83
Raghu Rai, a celebrated Indian photographer and visual historian, died at the age of 83. His passing comes as the world reflects on his profound impact on visual storytelling and the documentation of India's history. The long-term implication of his legacy is expected to inspire future generations of photographers and elevate the discourse on the role of photography in social change.
3 sourcesApr 29Moderate
- Culture· MENA
Launch of Islamic Values Forum in Makkah Region
The Islamic Values Forum was inaugurated by Prince Saud bin Mishal bin Abdulaziz in Jeddah. This initiative is aimed at promoting Islamic values and community awareness, coinciding with recent research on Hajj and Umrah. The long-term implication is expected to be a strengthened sense of community and improved services for pilgrims in the Makkah Region.
3 sourcesApr 28Low
- Culture· MENA
UAE Organizes Mass Wedding for 300 Couples in Gaza
A mass wedding event for 300 couples was held in Gaza, organized by the UAE. This initiative aims to bring joy and hope to the Palestinian community amidst ongoing challenges. The success of this event may inspire further community-focused initiatives to uplift the spirits of the Palestinian people and foster unity.
3 sourcesApr 28Low
- Culture· World
Michael Jackson's Streaming Volumes Surge 95% After Biopic Release
Michael Jackson's music streams in the U.S. surged by 95% during the weekend of April 24–25, 2026, following the theatrical release of the biopic 'Michael'. The film's unexpected box office success, grossing $97 million domestically, triggered a significant increase in on-demand streams of Jackson's catalog. This resurgence highlights the enduring popularity of Jackson's music and suggests potential for continued growth in streaming revenues for the music industry.
6 sourcesApr 28Low - Culture· World
Writers Guild of America ratifies new four-year contract with studios
The Writers Guild of America has ratified a new four-year contract with major studios, accepting cuts to their health plan. This decision comes after a swift negotiation process following the 2023 strikes, reflecting a strong approval from 90.38% of voting members. The long-term implications may set a precedent for future negotiations in the entertainment industry, particularly regarding writers' welfare and health benefits.
3 sourcesApr 27Low
- Culture· World
Claudia-Liza Vanderpuije Withdraws Claims Against Dan Walker After Settlement
Claudia-Liza Vanderpuije has withdrawn her allegations against Dan Walker following a mutual agreement with Channel 5 and ITN. This resolution comes amidst serious allegations of discrimination and harassment, which were settled without any admission of liability. The outcome may influence future handling of workplace misconduct allegations in the broadcasting industry.
3 sourcesApr 27Low
- Culture· UAE
UAE Announces Six-Day Holiday for Eid Al Adha in 2026
The UAE has officially announced a six-day holiday for Eid Al Adha in 2026. This decision comes as schools confirm their holiday plans, reflecting the cultural significance of the occasion and the desire to foster community spirit. The extended break is expected to enhance family gatherings and cultural celebrations across the nation.
3 sourcesApr 26Low