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
Kanye West Postpones Marseille Concert Amid Entry Ban Considerations by French Authorities
Kanye West has indefinitely postponed his concert scheduled for April 15, 2026, in Marseille, France. This decision follows the French Interior Minister's exploration of legal measures to prevent his entry due to his history of antisemitic remarks, coinciding with a recent UK visa denial. The long-term implication may involve increased scrutiny and potential bans on controversial artists in Europe, reflecting heightened sensitivity to antisemitism in the region.
6 sourcesApr 16High
- Culture· World
Johnny Somali Sentenced to Six Months in South Korea for Desecrating Statue of Peace
American YouTuber Johnny Somali was sentenced to six months in prison on April 15, 2026, for desecrating the Statue of Peace and other public nuisance offenses. The immediate trigger for this sentencing was his provocative actions in 2024, which included a stunt that sparked national outrage in South Korea. This case highlights ongoing tensions regarding historical grievances and may lead to stricter regulations on disruptive behavior by foreign influencers in sensitive cultural contexts.
3 sourcesApr 16Very High
- Culture· World
Jon Stewart Critiques Trump Over AI-Generated Jesus Image Amid Papal Dispute
Jon Stewart criticized President Donald Trump for denying that an AI-generated image he posted depicted himself as Jesus Christ, amidst a public feud with Pope Leo XIV. This controversy was triggered by Trump's derogatory remarks about the Pope's Easter peace message and the backlash from Christian communities regarding the image. The long-term implication may involve intensified scrutiny of Trump's public persona and the role of satire in political discourse as media figures continue to respond to his actions.
11 sourcesApr 16Moderate
- Culture· World
Victoria Police Launch Investigation into Ruby Rose's Allegations Against Katy Perry
Victoria Police's Sexual Offences and Child Abuse Investigation Team has initiated an investigation into a historical sexual assault allegation made by Ruby Rose against Katy Perry, stemming from an incident in 2010. The investigation was triggered by Rose's recent disclosure on social media, which has reignited public interest and scrutiny. This development may lead to broader discussions on accountability in the entertainment industry regarding historical allegations of misconduct.
3 sourcesApr 16High
- Culture· UAE
Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan Attends Wedding Reception in Abu Dhabi
On April 15, 2026, Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan attended a wedding reception at the Erth Hotel in Abu Dhabi. The event was hosted by Saeed Abduljalil Al Fahim to celebrate the marriage of his son, highlighting the royal family's role in fostering community ties among influential Emirati families. This royal endorsement reinforces social cohesion and cultural traditions within the UAE, emphasizing the importance of family and unity in Emirati society.
2 sourcesApr 15Low
- Culture· World
Saudi and Indonesian Ministers Discuss Creative Economy Collaboration in Jakarta
Saudi Minister of Culture Prince Badr bin Abdullah met with Indonesian Minister of Creative Economy Teuku Riefky Harsya to explore bilateral cooperation in the creative economy sector. This meeting is part of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 initiative aimed at diversifying its economy and enhancing cultural contributions. The long-term implication may lead to increased cultural exchanges and joint projects that bolster both nations' creative industries.
4 sourcesApr 15Low
- Culture· MENA
King Faisal Prize 48th Edition Award Ceremony Recognizes Global Laureates in Riyadh
The King Faisal Prize 48th edition award ceremony was held on April 15, 2026, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, honoring eight laureates across five categories for their significant contributions to humanity and Islamic values. This event is taking place now as part of Saudi Arabia's ongoing commitment to promote global knowledge and scientific advancement. The long-term implication is the potential strengthening of Saudi Arabia's position as a leader in fostering international collaboration in research and cultural exchange.
5 sourcesApr 15Low
- Culture· UAE
Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan Approves 40 Winners for Khalifa Education Award 2026
On April 15, 2026, Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan approved the names of 40 winners for the 19th cycle of the Khalifa Education Award. This recognition highlights excellence in education at local, Arab, and international levels, with a ceremony scheduled for May 13, 2026. The award aligns with the UAE's vision for educational innovation and development, reinforcing its commitment to fostering future generations.
3 sourcesApr 15Low
- Culture· World
Sony Pictures Announces R-Rated Animated Bloodborne Film Adaptation Co-Produced by YouTuber Jacksepticeye
Sony Pictures has announced an R-rated animated film adaptation of the video game Bloodborne, co-produced by YouTuber Jacksepticeye. This announcement comes in response to long-standing fan demand for more Bloodborne content and follows the success of other video game adaptations by PlayStation Productions. The project is likely to further expand the multimedia presence of the Bloodborne franchise and attract a wider audience to the gaming narrative.
3 sourcesApr 15Very High
- Culture· World
Asha Bhosle Cremated with State Honours in Mumbai as Thousands Pay Tribute
Legendary Indian playback singer Asha Bhosle was cremated with full state honours in Mumbai on April 13, 2026, following her death from cardiac arrest at age 92. The immediate outpouring of grief and tributes from fans and celebrities reflects her immense impact on Indian music and culture. This event underscores the cultural significance of Bhosle's legacy and may lead to increased recognition of her contributions to the arts in India and abroad.
4 sourcesApr 15Moderate
- Culture· World
Record Six British Acts Inducted into 2026 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
On April 13, 2026, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame announced its 2026 class of inductees, featuring a record six British acts. This unprecedented recognition comes amid a resurgence of interest in British music, fueled by recent reunion tours and a growing global appreciation for their legacies. The long-term implication is a potential shift in the music industry towards greater recognition of international acts, particularly from the UK, influencing future nominations and inductions.
4 sourcesApr 15Moderate
- Culture· MENA
Pope Leo XIV Completes Historic Pilgrimage to Algeria's Hippo Regius
On April 14, 2026, Pope Leo XIV presided over Holy Mass at the Basilica of Saint Augustine in Annaba, Algeria, marking the second day of his inaugural papal visit to the country. This visit is significant as it emphasizes the Pope's connection to St. Augustine and aims to promote Christian-Muslim coexistence amid ongoing global conflicts. The long-term implication of this pilgrimage may enhance Algeria's global image and foster interfaith dialogue in a region marked by religious tensions.
7 sourcesApr 15Low
- Culture· World
Ye Postpones Concert in France Following Government Ban Efforts
Ye has postponed his concert scheduled for June 11, 2026, at the Orange Vélodrome in Marseille due to a ban imposed by the French government. This decision comes after the UK Home Office's recent refusal to allow him entry, citing his controversial statements and actions. The long-term implication may involve increased scrutiny and potential bans on his future performances across Europe, impacting his tour plans and fan engagement.
4 sourcesApr 15High
- Culture· World
Ari Hodara Wins €1 Million Picasso in Charity Raffle
Ari Hodara won Pablo Picasso's 'Head of a Woman' valued at €1 million through a €100 ticket in a charity raffle held at Christie's in Paris. The raffle, which sold 120,000 tickets, raised €12 million for Alzheimer's research, reflecting a growing trend in democratizing access to high-value art. This event may inspire similar philanthropic initiatives in the art world, potentially reshaping fundraising strategies for charitable causes.
3 sourcesApr 15Moderate
- Culture· MENA
Saudi and Indonesian Ministers Discuss Cultural Cooperation in Jakarta
On April 13, 2026, Saudi Minister of Culture Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan met with Indonesian Minister of Culture Dr. Fadli Zon in Jakarta to enhance bilateral cultural partnerships. The meeting was triggered by ongoing efforts to renew a cultural memorandum of understanding and capitalize on shared Islamic heritage. Long-term implications include increased cultural exchanges and collaborations that may strengthen ties between the two nations and promote cultural diversification under Saudi Vision 2030.
3 sourcesApr 14Low
- Culture· World
Asha Bhosle, Iconic Indian Playback Singer, Passes Away at 92
On April 12, 2026, legendary Indian playback singer Asha Bhosle died at the age of 92 due to multi-organ failure in Mumbai. The immediate cause of her death was linked to complications from a chest infection and exhaustion following an extensive career spanning eight decades. Her passing marks a significant cultural loss, prompting tributes from prominent figures and highlighting her enduring legacy in Indian music and cinema.
9 sourcesApr 14Very High
- Culture· World
Asha Bhosle, Iconic Indian Playback Singer, Passes Away at 92 in Mumbai
Asha Bhosle, the renowned Indian playback singer, died on 12 April 2026 in Mumbai due to multi-organ failure after being hospitalized for exhaustion and a chest infection. Her death comes at a time when tributes from fans and celebrities are pouring in, reflecting her immense impact on the music industry. The long-term implication of her passing may lead to increased engagement with her music and tributes, particularly among the Indian diaspora and music enthusiasts worldwide.
9 sourcesApr 13Very High
- Culture· World
Asha Bhosle, Iconic Indian Playback Singer, Passes Away at 92 in Mumbai
Asha Bhosle, the renowned Indian playback singer, died on April 12, 2026, in Mumbai due to complications from a chest infection. Her death comes after a brief hospitalization for exhaustion, marking the end of an era in Indian music. The long-term implication is a significant cultural loss for India, as tributes pour in from fans and leaders alike, reflecting her profound impact on the music industry and society.
6 sourcesApr 12Very High
- Culture· UAE
Asha Bhosle, legendary Indian playback singer, passes away at 92 in Mumbai
Asha Bhosle died on April 12, 2026, at the age of 92 from multi-organ failure after being hospitalized for extreme exhaustion and a chest infection. Her death comes shortly after a series of performances, highlighting her enduring legacy in the music industry. The long-term implication is a significant cultural mourning in India and among the Indian diaspora, particularly in regions where she had a strong following, such as the UAE.
2 sourcesApr 12Very High - Culture· World
Afrika Bambaataa, influential hip-hop pioneer, passes away at 68
Afrika Bambaataa, a key figure in the hip-hop movement and founder of the Universal Zulu Nation, died on April 9, 2026, due to complications from prostate cancer. His death comes after a long battle with the illness and follows a controversial legacy marked by both musical innovation and serious allegations. The hip-hop community is likely to engage in discussions about his impact and the complexities of his legacy in the coming days.
5 sourcesApr 11High