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
'Weird Al' Yankovic Rejects Performance Offer at Riyadh Comedy Festival
'Weird Al' Yankovic has turned down a seven-figure offer to perform at the Riyadh Comedy Festival, citing discomfort with accepting money from a country with a controversial human rights record. This decision comes amid a growing trend among artists to prioritize personal values over financial gain, particularly in light of the festival's contentious debut last year. As more artists consider the ethical implications of their performance venues, the entertainment industry may shift towards more socially conscious decision-making regarding where they perform.
3 sourcesJul 26
- Culture· MENA
Saudi Media Forum Scheduled for February 2027 in Riyadh
The sixth edition of the Saudi Media Forum is set to take place from February 1 to 3, 2027, in Riyadh. This event is being organized to enhance Saudi Arabia's global standing in the media sector and aligns with the country's Vision 2030 goals. The forum is expected to foster international partnerships and innovations in the media industry, shaping its future in the region and beyond.
4 sourcesJul 25
- Culture· World
YouTuber Gossip Goblin to Release AI-Generated Film in Theaters
Gossip Goblin has announced the theatrical release of the AI-assisted film 'Gods Don’t Give Gifts' set for October 30. This release is occurring now as part of a broader trend of YouTube content transitioning to traditional cinema, showcasing the potential of AI in filmmaking. The success of this film could significantly influence future projects that integrate AI technology into mainstream media.
3 sourcesJul 25
- Culture· World
Louvre Museum's Apollo Gallery Reopens After Major Jewelry Heist
The Apollo Gallery at the Louvre Museum has reopened to the public after being closed for nine months due to a significant jewelry heist. This reopening is prompted by the museum's efforts to restore public trust and interest following the theft of 88 million euros worth of crown jewels. In the long term, the Louvre will need to enhance security measures and plan future exhibitions to celebrate its historical significance while ensuring visitor confidence.
6 sourcesJul 25
- Culture· World
Rebel Wilson Cleared of Defamation Charges in High-Profile Trial
Rebel Wilson has been cleared of defamation charges brought by actress Charlotte MacInnes in a Sydney court. The trial's outcome was influenced by significant doubts raised about the credibility of key witnesses and criticisms of Wilson's behavior. This legal victory may lead to ongoing tensions in the entertainment industry as MacInnes is likely to appeal the decision.
3 sourcesJul 25
- Culture· World
Sony Music sues AI startup Udio for copyright infringement of 30,000 recordings
Sony Music Entertainment has filed a lawsuit against AI startup Udio, alleging the unauthorized use of over 30,000 copyrighted recordings to train its AI models. This legal action is prompted by Udio's lack of agreements with major music labels, particularly Sony, which has previously taken similar actions against the company. The outcome of this lawsuit could reshape the relationship between AI music generation and copyright law in the industry.
3 sourcesJul 24
- Culture· World
Deezer reports over half of new music uploads are AI-generated
Deezer has announced that more than 50% of new music uploaded to its platform is generated by artificial intelligence. This shift is occurring as the platform faces a surge in AI-generated content, with over 90,000 tracks uploaded daily. In response, Deezer is implementing stricter regulations to maintain content quality and authenticity in the evolving music streaming landscape.
3 sourcesJul 24
- Culture· World
Christopher Nolan's 'The Odyssey' grosses over $264 million in opening weekend
'The Odyssey' has achieved a remarkable box office gross of $264.1 million worldwide in its opening weekend, setting multiple records. This success is attributed to Christopher Nolan's unique filmmaking approach and the film's appeal to younger audiences, despite the industry's ongoing AI cost-cutting measures. The film's performance is likely to influence future adaptations of classic literature in cinema and solidify Nolan's position as a leading figure in the industry.
4 sourcesJul 24
- Culture· World
Six beluga whales relocated from Canadian marine park to U.S. aquariums
Six beluga whales were successfully relocated from Marineland in Canada to various aquariums in the United States. This move follows a prolonged controversy regarding the treatment of the whales, including threats of euthanasia from the park. The long-term implication is a potential shift in animal welfare standards in captivity as these whales adapt to their new environments.
3 sourcesJul 24
- Culture· MENA
Renowned Egyptian composer Hani Shnuda passes away at 83
Hani Shnuda, a pivotal figure in modern Egyptian music, died at the age of 83. His passing comes after a health crisis, marking a significant loss for the music community that he profoundly influenced. The music industry is expected to honor his legacy through tributes and memorial events, ensuring his contributions are celebrated for generations to come.
3 sourcesJul 23
- Culture· World
Hollywood Embraces AI Collaboration Amid Industry Debate
Hollywood is increasingly forming partnerships with AI startups and integrating AI into productions. This shift is driven by major studios and directors recognizing the potential of AI technology, despite ongoing concerns about its impact on creativity. The long-term implication suggests a future where AI and human creativity coexist, raising questions about artistic integrity in the industry.
3 sourcesJul 23
- Culture· World
Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey breaks box office records and ignites cultural debates
Christopher Nolan's adaptation of The Odyssey opened to a record-breaking box office performance, grossing over $264 million worldwide in its opening weekend. The film's casting choices have sparked significant controversy and discussions about representation in storytelling at this moment. This success may influence future adaptations of classic literature, reflecting changing societal values and audience expectations.
3 sourcesJul 23
- Culture· World
Abandoned marmoset monkey raises alarm over new primate ownership regulations in London
A common marmoset monkey was found abandoned in a laundry bag on a London bus. This incident is occurring in the wake of new laws requiring licenses and microchipping for primate ownership, which animal welfare advocates fear may lead to increased abandonments. The long-term implication is a potential rise in similar cases, prompting calls for greater responsibility among pet owners and scrutiny of the new regulations' impact on animal welfare.
3 sourcesJul 23
- Culture· MENA
Saudi students win eight awards at international science competitions
Saudi Arabia's teams achieved notable success by winning four awards at the International Chemistry Olympiad and four at the International Biology Olympiad. This achievement is attributed to the rigorous training programs organized by the King Abdulaziz and His Companions Foundation for Giftedness and Creativity. The long-term implication is that these successes may enhance Saudi Arabia's reputation in global scientific education and align with the nation's Vision 2030 goals.
3 sourcesJul 21
- Culture· MENA
Saudi Arabia sees 22.5% increase in Umrah visa arrivals during 1448H season
Saudi Arabia has reported a significant increase in Umrah visa arrivals, with 931,500 pilgrims entering the Kingdom during the early part of the 1448H Umrah season. This growth is attributed to the Kingdom's commitment to improving the pilgrimage experience and supporting the goals of Vision 2030. As the Umrah season continues, Saudi Arabia is expected to see further increases in pilgrim numbers, driven by ongoing enhancements in services and infrastructure aimed at providing a seamless experience for visitors.
3 sourcesJul 20
- Culture· World
Ancient Egyptian princesses revealed as skilled warriors through new archaeological findings
Recent analyses of mummified remains indicate that ancient Egyptian princesses were not only buried with weapons but were also capable of using them. This discovery challenges long-held assumptions about gender roles in ancient Egypt, highlighting the active participation of women in warfare. The implications of this research may inspire further studies into female agency in ancient civilizations and reshape historical narratives.
4 sourcesJul 20
- Culture· World
Bethesda announces Fallout 5 and new collaboration with Obsidian amid Xbox layoffs
Bethesda has confirmed the development of Fallout 5 and a new game in collaboration with Obsidian Entertainment. This announcement comes as Xbox undergoes a significant restructuring, resulting in approximately 3,200 layoffs. The long-term implication is that Bethesda aims to sustain interest in the Fallout franchise despite the challenges faced by its parent company, potentially leading to more franchise expansions in the future.
3 sourcesJul 20
- Culture· World
Bayeux Tapestry arrives in London marking a cultural diplomacy milestone between UK and France
The Bayeux Tapestry has been transported from France to the British Museum for a special exhibition. This event is happening now as a significant act of cultural diplomacy aimed at improving Anglo-French relations post-Brexit. The long-term implication is that this exhibition may lead to further cultural collaborations between the two nations.
3 sourcesJul 20
- Culture· World
Christopher Nolan's 'The Odyssey' achieves record-breaking $264.1 million global box office debut
'The Odyssey' opened to a record-breaking $264.1 million globally, marking Christopher Nolan's biggest opening ever. This success is attributed to the film's appeal as an original, non-franchise content, which resonates with audiences seeking fresh storytelling. The film's performance may encourage studios to invest more in original films rather than relying solely on established franchises in the future.
5 sourcesJul 19
- Culture· MENA
Saudi Arabia to Experience Longest Total Solar Eclipse of the 21st Century on August 2, 2027
Saudi Arabia is set to witness a total solar eclipse on August 2, 2027, with totality lasting up to six minutes in some regions. This rare astronomical event is generating excitement and preparation for safe viewing practices as the date approaches. The eclipse is expected to enhance public interest in astronomy and could lead to increased tourism and educational initiatives surrounding the event.
3 sourcesJul 19