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· UAE
UAE President Receives Eid Al Adha Greetings from Emirates Leaders
On June 28, 2023, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the President of the UAE, received Eid Al Adha greetings from the rulers of the Emirates and various sheikhs in Abu Dhabi. This event underscores the cultural and religious significance of Eid Al Adha, fostering unity and goodwill among the UAE leadership at this time. The long-term implication is the reinforcement of social cohesion and national pride, enhancing the UAE's cultural identity during the festive season.
8 sourcesMay 30Low
- Culture· UAE
Eid Al Adha celebrations in the UAE highlight community engagement and technological integration
Eid Al Adha was celebrated in the UAE with significant participation in prayers and family gatherings. The surge in smart app bookings for abattoirs reflects a growing trend towards modern conveniences in traditional practices. As technology continues to integrate into cultural celebrations, future Eid events may further evolve to enhance the experience while preserving traditions.
4 sourcesMay 30Low
- Culture· UAE
Dubai abattoirs process over 11,000 sacrificial animals during Eid Al Adha
Dubai abattoirs processed 11,022 sacrificial animals in the first two days of Eid Al Adha. This surge in activity is driven by the cultural significance of the holiday and the high demand for sacrificial services. The efficient operations reflect the city's preparedness and may lead to increased community engagement and cultural celebrations as Eid progresses.
3 sourcesMay 30Low
- Culture· MENA
Hajj Pilgrims Successfully Complete Stone-Throwing Ritual Amid Enhanced Safety Measures
Pilgrims have begun the ritual of throwing stones at the jamarat during the second day of Tashreeq, marking a significant turnout and effective management by authorities. This organized process is occurring now due to the ongoing Hajj pilgrimage, which has seen improvements in logistics and safety over the years. The successful execution of these rituals is likely to influence future pilgrimage planning and infrastructure enhancements.
6 sourcesMay 30Low
- Culture· MENA
Pilgrims complete Farewell Tawaf marking end of Hajj season
Early departing pilgrims performed the Farewell Tawaf at the Grand Mosque in Makkah, concluding their Hajj pilgrimage. This event was facilitated by authorities implementing operational plans to ensure a smooth and safe experience for the worshippers. Looking ahead, the successful management of this year's rituals suggests ongoing improvements in Hajj operations for future seasons.
5 sourcesMay 30Low
- Culture· MENA
Madinah welcomes first groups of Hajj pilgrims from Makkah
The first groups of Hajj pilgrims have arrived in Madinah from Makkah, marking the commencement of the pilgrimage season. This event is facilitated by extensive organizational measures and operational readiness of local facilities to accommodate the influx of visitors. The successful management of Hajj logistics is expected to enhance the pilgrimage experience and set a precedent for future seasons.
3 sourcesMay 30Low
- Culture· World
Sharjah becomes first Arab guest of honor at Warsaw International Book Fair
Sharjah has made history by opening the Warsaw International Book Fair as the first Arab guest of honor. This significant cultural event highlights the growing importance of cultural diplomacy between the UAE and Poland. The long-term implication is a potential increase in interest and collaboration in promoting Arab literature and culture in Europe.
3 sourcesMay 30Low
- Culture· World
ElevenLabs Licenses Stan Lee's Voice and Likeness for AI Content Creation
ElevenLabs has secured a deal to license the voice and likeness of Stan Lee for AI-generated content. This partnership is occurring now as the entertainment industry increasingly explores the use of AI to digitally resurrect iconic figures. The long-term implication is a potential shift in audience engagement and storytelling, raising ethical questions about the use of deceased individuals' likenesses in media.
4 sourcesMay 30Low
- Culture· World
Personal assistant sentenced for role in Matthew Perry's drug overdose
Kenneth Iwamasa was sentenced to 41 months in prison for injecting actor Matthew Perry with ketamine, contributing to his death. This sentencing follows a broader investigation into multiple individuals connected to Perry's overdose in October 2023. The case underscores ongoing concerns about drug use and accountability among those close to individuals struggling with addiction.
4 sourcesMay 30Moderate
- Culture· World
Viral albino buffalo in Bangladesh spared from Eid al-Adha sacrifice
An albino buffalo in Bangladesh, nicknamed 'Donald Trump', was saved from sacrifice during Eid al-Adha after gaining viral fame. The immediate trigger for this decision was the significant public attention and social media influence surrounding the buffalo's resemblance to the former U.S. president. This incident may lead to broader discussions on animal rights and the impact of social media on cultural practices in the future.
4 sourcesMay 30High
- Culture· MENA
Eid al-Adha celebrations in Lebanon significantly diminished due to ongoing war and displacement
Eid al-Adha celebrations in Lebanon have been profoundly affected by nearly three years of war and displacement. The immediate cause of this shift is the pervasive atmosphere of fear and uncertainty that limits family gatherings and traditional festivities. As the conflict continues, the future of cultural celebrations in Lebanon remains uncertain, with families struggling to maintain their traditions amidst ongoing challenges.
3 sourcesMay 30Low
- Culture· UAE
Dubai Police Issue Advisory on Children's Safety During Eid Celebrations
Dubai Police have issued a public advisory emphasizing the importance of children's safety during Eid celebrations. This reminder comes as families prepare for crowded festivities where children may wander off or encounter dangers. The long-term implication suggests that similar safety advisories may become standard practice during major public events to enhance community well-being.
3 sourcesMay 29Low
- Culture· UAE
UAE Announces Eid Al Adha Prayer Times Across Emirates
The UAE has officially announced the prayer times for Eid Al Adha, with specific timings for each emirate. This announcement comes as thousands of worshippers gather in mosques to celebrate the holiday, emphasizing the cultural significance of the occasion. The long-term implication is expected to be a strengthening of community bonds and cultural identity through increased participation in religious activities.
5 sourcesMay 29Low
- Culture· MENA
Hajj Pilgrims Arrive at Muzdalifah for 2026 Pilgrimage
On May 27, 2026, Hajj pilgrims began arriving at Muzdalifah, a key site in the annual pilgrimage to Mecca. This influx is occurring as millions gather for the Hajj, which is a significant religious event for Muslims worldwide. The long-term implication includes increased regional economic activity and logistical demands as the pilgrimage progresses towards its concluding rituals.
8 sourcesMay 29Low
- Culture· UAE
Dubai Leaders Highlight Day of Arafah's Significance for Unity and Forgiveness
Sheikh Hamdan and Sheikh Maktoum of Dubai emphasized the importance of the Day of Arafah as a time for mercy, forgiveness, and collective prayer. This focus on spiritual values comes as millions of Muslims observe the day, seeking divine acceptance of their Hajj and prayers. The leaders' messages may inspire further initiatives aimed at fostering unity and peace within the UAE and the broader Muslim community.
3 sourcesMay 29Low
- Culture· MENA
Successful Tawaf al-Ifadah Ritual Completed by Hajj Pilgrims in Mecca
Pilgrims successfully performed the Tawaf al-Ifadah at the Grand Mosque in Mecca, benefiting from well-organized services and a smooth flow of crowds. This achievement is attributed to the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah's detailed plans for crowd management and safety measures. The successful execution of this crucial ritual reflects the authorities' preparedness for future pilgrimages and enhances the overall Hajj experience.
3 sourcesMay 29Low
- Culture· MENA
Saudi and UAE leaders extend Eid al-Adha greetings promoting peace and unity
Leaders from Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have issued messages of goodwill to their citizens and the global Muslim community on the occasion of Eid al-Adha. This celebration is marked by themes of sacrifice and community, prompting leaders to emphasize unity and stability during this significant holiday. The goodwill expressed may foster social cohesion and collaborative initiatives in the region moving forward.
3 sourcesMay 29Low
- Culture· MENA
Millions of Pilgrims Gather at Jabal Al-Rahmah for Day of Arafat During Hajj
Pilgrims ascended Jabal Al-Rahmah to perform the essential rites of Hajj on the Day of Arafat. This significant gathering is facilitated by Saudi authorities who have implemented comprehensive operational plans to manage the large crowds effectively. The successful management of the pilgrimage reflects Saudi Arabia's commitment to enhancing the Hajj experience for future pilgrims.
5 sourcesMay 29Low
- Culture· World
Over 1.7 million pilgrims complete Hajj rituals as Tashreeq rites conclude
Pilgrims have completed the first Tashreeq rites and are preparing to leave after performing key Hajj rituals. This year's pilgrimage has seen a significant turnout, with over 1.7 million participants engaging in essential rituals. The conclusion of Hajj will lead to reflections on its spiritual significance and discussions on the logistics of managing such a large-scale event.
3 sourcesMay 29Low
- Culture· World
Jazz Legend Sonny Rollins Passes Away at 95
Sonny Rollins, the iconic jazz saxophonist, has died at the age of 95. His passing comes as the music community reflects on his profound influence and contributions to jazz over decades. The long-term implication is a renewed focus on his legacy and the impact of his work on future generations of musicians.
6 sourcesMay 29Moderate