
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· UAE
UAE Coastal Fortified Network Added to UNESCO Tentative World Heritage List
The Sharjah Archaeology Authority announced the inclusion of the Coastal Fortified Network of South Eastern Arabia on UNESCO's Tentative List. This decision follows extensive preparation of the nomination dossier, highlighting the region's historical significance in maritime trade and coastal management. The long-term implication is an enhanced focus on cultural tourism and heritage preservation in the UAE, potentially increasing international interest and investment in the region's historical sites.
3 sourcesSep 12Low
- Culture· World
Bayeux Tapestry Exhibition Launches at British Museum Marking Cultural Milestone
The Bayeux Tapestry exhibition opened to the public at the British Museum in London on 10 September 2026, marking its first display outside France. This unprecedented event follows extensive diplomatic negotiations between the UK and France, aimed at strengthening bilateral ties post-Brexit. The long-term implication is a potential increase in cultural exchanges and tourism between the two nations, fostering improved relations.
3 sourcesSep 12Moderate
- Culture· World
Princess Diana's Revenge Dress to be Auctioned at Sotheby's in New York
Princess Diana's iconic 'revenge dress' is scheduled for auction on December 9, 2026, at Sotheby's in New York City. The auction is triggered by the garment's historical significance and its first public sale since 1997, coinciding with a global exhibition tour. This event is likely to elevate the dress's status as a cultural artifact and could lead to increased interest in fashion memorabilia associated with royal figures.
3 sourcesSep 12Moderate
- Culture· World
European Museums Face Increased Threats Following Recent Art Heists
On September 8, 2026, thieves stole four Renoir paintings from the Musée Renoir in Cagnes-sur-Mer, France, with two recovered and two remaining missing. This incident is part of a broader pattern of high-profile art thefts across Europe, highlighting systemic security vulnerabilities in museums. The long-term implication is a likely push for enhanced security measures and funding to protect cultural heritage from organized crime.
5 sourcesSep 11Moderate
- Culture· World
Prince George Begins Attendance at Eton College
Prince George started his first day at Eton College on September 8, 2026, marking a significant transition in his education as he moves from Lambrook School. This event follows Kensington Palace's announcement in June 2026, which evaluated multiple schools and established Eton as the chosen institution, continuing a family legacy. The long-term implication is the increased public interest in the royal family's educational choices and the potential influence on future royal engagements and public perception.
3 sourcesSep 11Low
- Culture· MENA
Saudi and Bahraini officials discuss GCC tourism integration in Manama
On September 10, 2026, Saudi Minister of Tourism Ahmed Al-Khateeb met with Bahrain's Deputy Prime Minister Sheikh Khalid bin Abdulla Al Khalifa to discuss enhancing tourism cooperation among GCC states. This meeting was triggered by ongoing efforts to align tourism strategies and bolster economic diversification in the region. The long-term implication is a strengthened regional tourism sector that may lead to increased intra-GCC travel and competitiveness on the global stage.
3 sourcesSep 11Low
- Culture· World
Macron Calls on YouTube to Support Local Content Creation at Lumière Summit
French President Emmanuel Macron urged YouTube to finance local content creation during the Lumière Summit, highlighting threats to France's cultural model from dominant social platforms and AI. This call comes as traditional media faces challenges from platforms like YouTube, which divert audiences and investment away from local productions. The long-term implication may involve increased regulatory measures for tech giants to ensure support for local content and cultural preservation in France.
5 sourcesSep 10Low
- Culture· UAE
Emirati Women's Day 2026 Celebrates Progress in Women's Leadership Across UAE Sectors
Emirati Women's Day 2026 highlights the significant advancements of Emirati women into leadership roles in healthcare and the economy. This progress is driven by decades of strategic investments in education and supportive policies, culminating in the National Policy for Empowerment of Emirati Women 2023-2031. The long-term implication is a strengthened economic resilience and a shift towards a more inclusive workforce in the UAE's knowledge-based economy.
3 sourcesSep 9Low
- Culture· World
Susan Sarandon Claims Loss of Film Roles Due to Pro-Palestine Activism at Venice Film Festival
Oscar-winning actress Susan Sarandon reported ongoing difficulties in securing major studio roles, attributing this to her pro-Palestine activism during a press conference at the Venice Film Festival. This situation arises as she highlights a shift in public opinion regarding U.S. support for Israel, yet notes that industry power structures continue to penalize outspoken critics. The long-term implication may lead to increased scrutiny of Hollywood's treatment of political activism and a potential shift towards independent filmmaking for those facing similar challenges.
3 sourcesSep 9Moderate
- Culture· World
2026 Summer Box Office Achieves Record $4.76 Billion in North America
The 2026 summer box office in the United States and Canada reached an unprecedented $4.76 billion, marking the highest revenue for this period on record. This surge is attributed to a combination of blockbuster releases and a significant increase in audience attendance, reflecting a recovery from the pandemic and previous industry strikes. Analysts predict that the momentum will continue, with expectations for the full-year domestic total to exceed $10 billion for the first time since before the pandemic.
3 sourcesSep 9Moderate
- Culture· World
Gloria Steinem Passes Away at 92 Sparking Global Tributes
Gloria Steinem, a pivotal figure in the feminist movement, died at the age of 92, prompting widespread tributes from cultural and political leaders. The immediate response highlights her profound influence on gender equality and women's rights, as figures like Hillary Clinton and Meghan Markle honor her legacy. This event is likely to reignite discussions on feminism and gender issues, influencing future advocacy and policy initiatives worldwide.
7 sourcesSep 6Low
- Culture· World
Gloria Steinem's Legacy in Feminism and Fashion Highlighted After Her Death
Gloria Steinem, a pivotal figure in the feminist movement, passed away at the age of 92 on September 3, 2026, prompting retrospectives on her influence. The recent analysis by The Guardian underscores how Steinem utilized fashion as a strategic tool to reshape perceptions of feminists and advocate for women's rights. Her passing is likely to reignite discussions on the intersection of feminism and personal expression, influencing future activism and cultural dialogues around gender equality.
4 sourcesSep 5Moderate
- Culture· World
Yayoi Kusama, Influential Japanese Artist, Passes Away at 97
Yayoi Kusama, the renowned Japanese avant-garde artist known for her polka-dot motifs and infinity rooms, died on August 14, 2026, in Tokyo. Her death comes after a lifetime of artistic contributions that gained her global recognition, particularly in her later years. The art world is likely to see a surge in interest and value for her works, as tributes pour in and her legacy continues to inspire future generations of artists.
9 sourcesSep 4Low
- Culture· UAE
UAE Leaders Celebrate Mawlid Al-Nabawi with Messages of Peace and Compassion
UAE leaders commemorated Mawlid Al-Nabawi on August 25, 2026, with public messages emphasizing mercy, compassion, and unity. This observance coincides with the government's declaration of a public holiday on August 28, 2026, allowing citizens to reflect and celebrate. The long-term implication is a reinforcement of national values of tolerance and interfaith harmony within the UAE society.
10 sourcesSep 4Low
- Culture· UAE
Emirati National Drowns in Mykonos During Holiday
Badr Abdullah Mohammed Al Harmi, a 35-year-old Emirati, drowned in Mykonos, Greece, on August 25, 2026, after being swept into deeper waters by strong sea currents while swimming. The incident occurred shortly after his arrival on the island for a holiday, highlighting the dangers of swimming in unfamiliar waters. This tragedy has prompted widespread mourning in Ras Al Khaimah and charitable initiatives in his memory, reflecting community solidarity and support for the family.
4 sourcesSep 4Low
- Culture· World
Saudi Arabia Establishes Cultural Center in Paris During Crown Prince's Visit
On August 26, 2026, the Saudi Ministry of Culture announced the establishment of a Saudi Cultural Center in Paris. This initiative coincides with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's visit to France, aiming to enhance cultural diplomacy and bilateral relations. The long-term implication is a strengthened cultural partnership between Saudi Arabia and France, potentially increasing Saudi Arabia's global cultural influence.
3 sourcesSep 4Low
- Culture· UAE
Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak Highlights Emirati Women's Contributions at ADNOC Event
On 28 August 2026, Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak delivered a keynote address at an ADNOC event in Abu Dhabi, emphasizing the vital role of Emirati women in national development. This event coincides with Emirati Women's Day and reflects the UAE's ongoing commitment to gender balance and women's empowerment in various sectors. The long-term implication includes ADNOC's initiative to enhance female representation in technical roles, aiming for 25% by 2030 through new training programs.
3 sourcesSep 4Low
- Culture· World
Tim Curry, iconic actor of The Rocky Horror Picture Show, passes away at 80
Tim Curry, the celebrated British actor known for his role as Dr. Frank-N-Furter in The Rocky Horror Picture Show, died on August 25, 2026, at the age of 80. His death follows a long battle with health issues stemming from a stroke in 2012, which significantly impacted his mobility and public appearances. The entertainment industry is now reflecting on his diverse contributions to film, theater, and voice acting, likely leading to renewed interest in his body of work.
3 sourcesSep 4Moderate
- Culture· UAE
Ferrari World Abu Dhabi Announces Third Ladies-Only Run for Emirati Women’s Day 2026
On 26 August 2026, Ferrari World Yas Island announced the third edition of its Ladies Run scheduled for 30 August 2026, celebrating Emirati Women’s Day. The event is triggered by the UAE's ongoing commitment to women's empowerment and community engagement through sports. This initiative is likely to enhance participation in women-focused fitness events across the region, setting a precedent for similar initiatives in other MENA countries.
3 sourcesSep 4Low
- Culture· UAE
Emirati Women's Day 2026 Celebrates Women's Leadership and Economic Contributions
Emirati Women's Day 2026 has transitioned from a single day to a month-long observance, highlighting the significant contributions of women in various sectors across the UAE. This expansion is driven by ongoing initiatives to empower women as part of the UAE's Vision 2031, emphasizing their role in national development. The long-term implication is a strengthened commitment to gender parity in leadership and economic participation, reinforcing the UAE's position as a leader in women's empowerment in the region.
3 sourcesSep 4Low