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
582 stories- Culture· MENA
Saudi Arabia announces archaeological discovery and economic initiatives
Saudi Arabia has revealed the discovery of a 1,100-year-old gold jewelry hoard at the Dariyah archaeological site, marking a significant cultural heritage milestone. This announcement coincides with a resilient performance in the Saudi stock market, where the benchmark TASI rose by 0.5%, reflecting investor confidence amid ongoing economic initiatives. The long-term implication suggests that these developments will enhance Saudi Arabia's cultural significance and economic stability as part of its Vision 2030 strategy.
7 sourcesJun 4Low
- Culture· MENA
Pilgrims Begin Departing Saudi Arabia After Hajj 1447 AH
Pilgrims have begun to leave Saudi Arabia after completing their Hajj rituals for the year 1447 AH. This is happening now as the Saudi authorities have successfully managed the logistics of their departure, ensuring a smooth transition for thousands of worshippers. With the successful conclusion of this year's Hajj, Saudi Arabia is likely to focus on enhancing services and infrastructure for future pilgrimages, aiming to accommodate even larger numbers of attendees.
3 sourcesJun 4Low
- Culture· MENA
Exhibition of the Architecture of the Two Holy Mosques showcases historical artifacts
The Exhibition of the Architecture of the Two Holy Mosques is currently highlighting significant historical artifacts, including a wooden base used for managing pilgrim movement around the Kaaba. This event is taking place now as part of a broader initiative to educate the public about Islamic heritage and the historical development of the Grand Mosque. In the long term, the exhibition is expected to attract more visitors and may expand to include interactive displays and artifacts from different eras.
3 sourcesJun 4Low
- Culture· MENA
International Guests Engage in Cultural and Religious Activities in Medina During Hajj
International guests representing 104 countries participated in cultural and religious activities in Medina following this year's Hajj. This initiative aims to enhance the experience of pilgrims by providing educational insights into Islamic heritage at significant sites. The program is expected to strengthen global Muslim community bonds and promote a deeper understanding of Islamic values and heritage.
4 sourcesJun 4Low
- Culture· MENA
Saudi Arabia Begins Issuing Umrah Visas for New Pilgrimage Season
Saudi Arabia has started issuing Umrah visas as of May 31, 2026, marking the commencement of the new pilgrimage season. This initiative follows the conclusion of the Hajj season and is part of the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah's efforts to streamline the pilgrimage process. In the long term, the implementation of advanced technologies and regulations is expected to enhance the overall pilgrimage experience for visitors.
3 sourcesJun 3Low
- Culture· World
Bill Gates faces reputational crisis due to Epstein ties
Bill Gates' reputation has significantly deteriorated following revelations of his connections to Jeffrey Epstein. This scrutiny has led to his exclusion from key events, such as Microsoft's CEO Summit, highlighting the immediate impact of these associations. Long-term, Gates may struggle to restore his public image and influence in both the tech and philanthropic sectors as investigations continue and public interest remains high.
3 sourcesJun 3Low
- Culture· World
Oscar-winning film editor Marcia Lucas passes away at 80
Marcia Lucas, renowned for her editing work on the original 'Star Wars' trilogy, has died at the age of 80. Her passing comes as the film industry reflects on her significant contributions to cinema, particularly in shaping narrative structure and pacing. This loss is likely to spark renewed discussions about her legacy and influence on future filmmakers and editors.
3 sourcesJun 2Low
- Culture· World
Kanye West's concert in Italy cancelled over antisemitism concerns
Kanye West's concert scheduled for July 18, 2026, in Reggio Emilia, Italy, has been cancelled due to public order and safety concerns raised by the local Jewish community regarding his past antisemitic remarks. The decision was made by the prefect of Reggio Emilia, Salvatore Angieri, reflecting ongoing tensions and previous cancellations of West's concerts in the country. This cancellation may set a precedent for future performances by artists with controversial histories, impacting the live music industry and artist reputations.
3 sourcesJun 2Low
- Culture· MENA
New Kiswa for Kaaba Handover Ceremony Marks Islamic Tradition
The Deputy Emir of Makkah has officially handed over the new Kiswa for the Kaaba to its gatekeeper. This ceremonial event occurs ahead of the annual replacement of the Kiswa, which is a significant tradition marking the start of the new Hijri year. The ongoing commitment to this tradition reinforces the cultural and religious significance of the Kaaba within the Islamic community worldwide.
3 sourcesJun 1Low
- Culture· MENA
Saudi Arabia celebrates successful completion of Hajj 1447
Saudi Arabia has successfully concluded the Hajj season of 1447, receiving accolades from key officials for its management and services. This achievement is attributed to the kingdom's ongoing investments in infrastructure and commitment to ensuring the safety and comfort of millions of pilgrims. Looking ahead, the successful management of this year's Hajj sets a precedent for future seasons, with expectations for continued enhancements in pilgrimage services and infrastructure.
3 sourcesJun 1Low
- Culture· MENA
Saudi Arabia successfully concludes Hajj season 1447 with praise for organization
Saudi Arabia has successfully managed the Hajj season of 1447, receiving commendations from various officials for its organization and services. This success is attributed to extensive planning and significant investments in infrastructure aimed at enhancing the pilgrimage experience. Looking ahead, the Kingdom is expected to continue improving Hajj services, aligning with its Vision 2030 goals for tourism and religious service enhancement.
6 sourcesJun 1Low
- Culture· MENA
Hajj pilgrimage 1447 AH concludes with successful Farewell Tawaf
Pilgrims completed the Farewell Tawaf at the Grand Mosque in Makkah, marking the end of the Hajj season. This successful conclusion was facilitated by advanced crowd management strategies implemented by Saudi authorities. Looking ahead, preparations for the next Hajj season will likely focus on enhancing safety and logistical operations for millions of pilgrims.
6 sourcesJun 1Low
- Culture· World
Kane Parsons becomes youngest filmmaker to top North American box office with 'Backrooms'
Kane Parsons' horror film 'Backrooms' has debuted at number one in the North American box office, earning $81 million in its opening weekend. This historic achievement is attributed to Parsons' popularity as a YouTube creator and the film's strong connection to his existing online audience. The success of 'Backrooms' may encourage more digital content creators to pursue mainstream filmmaking opportunities.
3 sourcesJun 1High
- Culture· UAE
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Receives Eid Greetings in Dubai
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum welcomed well-wishers during Eid Al Adha celebrations at the Za’abeel Majlis in Dubai. The event is taking place now as part of the UAE's cultural and social calendar, emphasizing community ties and leadership. This celebration reinforces the UAE's commitment to unity and goodwill, setting a positive tone for future public engagements and national initiatives.
3 sourcesMay 31Low
- Culture· UAE
Indian expatriate returns Dh100,000 found in Dubai parking lot
An Indian man returned Dh100,000 he found in a parking lot to Dubai Police. This act of integrity is part of a broader trend in the UAE, where over 8,700 individuals returned found cash to authorities in 2025. The incident underscores the strong cultural values of honesty and community trust in law enforcement within the UAE.
4 sourcesMay 31Low
- Culture· MENA
Hajj Pilgrims Successfully Complete Rami al-Jamarat Ritual Amid Enhanced Safety Measures
Thousands of pilgrims are currently participating in the Rami al-Jamarat ritual during the final days of Hajj. This year's efficient organization by Saudi authorities, aimed at ensuring safety and comfort, has been a significant factor in the smooth execution of the rituals. The successful management of this year's Hajj sets a precedent for future pilgrimages, potentially leading to further enhancements in the experience for pilgrims.
5 sourcesMay 31Low
- Culture· World
Sharjah inaugurates Polish edition of 'Folktales Reimagined' at Warsaw International Book Fair
Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi inaugurated the Polish edition of the 'Folktales Reimagined' exhibition at the Warsaw International Book Fair. This event marks Sharjah's historic role as the first Arab Guest of Honour, highlighting the cultural ties between the UAE and Poland. The initiative is expected to enhance cultural exchanges and collaborations between the two nations in the long term.
3 sourcesMay 31Low
- Culture· World
Sharjah becomes first Arab guest of honour at Warsaw International Book Fair
Sharjah has been designated as the first Arab guest of honour at the 2026 Warsaw International Book Fair. This recognition is part of Sharjah's ongoing efforts to promote Arabic language and culture on an international stage. The event is expected to foster future cultural exchanges and collaborations between the Arab world and Europe.
3 sourcesMay 31Low
- Culture· World
British Museum Postpones Jewish Culture Lecture Amid Protest Concerns
The British Museum has postponed a lecture on ancient Israel and Judah that was scheduled for Jewish culture month due to fears of potential protests. This decision has been triggered by rising tensions surrounding cultural discourse and the anticipated disruption from protest groups. The long-term implication may involve a reevaluation of how cultural institutions manage public safety versus the right to free expression in future events.
3 sourcesMay 31Low
- Culture· UAE
UAE Leaders Attend Eid Al Adha Prayers and Engage with Community
On June 28, 2023, UAE leaders participated in Eid Al Adha prayers at mosques across the country, interacting with worshippers. This event is occurring as part of the significant Islamic holiday that emphasizes faith, charity, and community values. The long-term implication is the reinforcement of cultural identity and social cohesion within the UAE during major religious observances.
7 sourcesMay 30Low