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
Pilgrims Engage in Stoning Ritual on First Day of Tashreeq During Hajj 2026
On May 27, 2026, pilgrims in Saudi Arabia began the stoning ritual at Mina, marking the first day of Tashreeq during the Hajj pilgrimage. This event is occurring now as it coincides with the Eid al-Adha celebrations and follows the Day of Arafat, amidst ongoing regional tensions affecting pilgrimage logistics. The long-term implication is that the Hajj continues to play a crucial role in fostering community and faith among Muslims, while also impacting local economies in the region.
10 sourcesMay 29Low
- Culture· World
Global Eid al-Adha Celebrations Coincide with Hajj Pilgrimage
Eid al-Adha celebrations are taking place worldwide, with millions of Muslims participating in prayers and rituals. This significant event is occurring now as it aligns with the Hajj pilgrimage, which attracts over 1.7 million pilgrims to Saudi Arabia. The long-term implication is a reinforcement of community bonds and the ongoing significance of Hajj in the Islamic faith.
3 sourcesMay 29Low
- Culture· UAE
Sharjah Municipality opens new 1.8km rubber walking track at Green Belt Park
The Sharjah Municipality has officially opened a new 1.8km rubber walking track at Green Belt Park. This initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance public infrastructure and promote healthier lifestyles among residents. The long-term implication is expected to be a significant increase in community engagement in physical activities, contributing to overall public health improvements.
4 sourcesMay 28Low
- Culture· MENA
Over 2.5 million pilgrims gather at Jabal Al-Rahmah for Day of Arafat
More than 2.5 million pilgrims visited Jabal Al-Rahmah in Saudi Arabia to perform religious rituals during the Day of Arafat. This significant influx is facilitated by the Kingdom's comprehensive operational plans aimed at ensuring a smooth pilgrimage experience. The successful management of this event is expected to enhance future Hajj planning and participation.
3 sourcesMay 28Low
- Culture· UAE
UAE families celebrate Eid Al Adha with the arrival of newborns
During Eid Al Adha, families in the UAE welcomed newborns in hospitals, creating emotional scenes of joy. This coincided with the holiday's traditional prayers and festive gatherings, highlighting the significance of family milestones during religious observances. The intertwining of personal celebrations with communal festivities is likely to continue enriching the cultural fabric of the UAE in future Eid celebrations.
3 sourcesMay 28Low
- Culture· World
Hajj 2026 sees over 1.5 million pilgrims in Mecca amid security concerns
Over 1.5 million pilgrims have gathered in Mecca for Hajj 2026, marking a significant turnout for the religious event. This increase in attendance is attributed to a gradual recovery from the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, despite ongoing security issues in the region. The rising pilgrimage numbers indicate that Saudi Arabia will likely need to enhance its infrastructure and services to accommodate future growth and ensure safety for pilgrims.
3 sourcesMay 28Low
- Culture· World
Technology Transforms Hajj Experience for Nearly Two Million Pilgrims
This year's Hajj is witnessing a significant enhancement in the pilgrimage experience through the integration of advanced technology. The immediate cause is the utilization of digital networks and smartphones, which facilitate logistics and allow pilgrims to document their experiences. In the long term, this trend suggests that technology will continue to evolve, further enriching the Hajj experience and potentially influencing other religious practices globally.
3 sourcesMay 28Low
- Culture· UAE
Dubai introduces virtual Eid visits for inmates and reserves beaches for families
Dubai has implemented virtual visits for inmates to connect with their families during Eid and has reserved six public beaches exclusively for family celebrations. This initiative is aimed at enhancing family connections and fostering a community-friendly environment during the holiday. In the long term, such measures may lead to similar programs in other regions, promoting inclusivity and support for families during festive occasions.
3 sourcesMay 27Low
- Culture· MENA
Saudi Arabia completes preparations for Hajj pilgrimage as pilgrims arrive in Mina
Pilgrims have arrived in Mina to observe the Day of Tarwiyah as part of the Hajj rituals. This is happening now due to the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah's extensive preparations and upgrades to infrastructure aimed at enhancing the pilgrimage experience. The long-term implication is that Saudi Arabia aims to solidify its leadership in managing large-scale religious gatherings through continuous improvements in crowd management and service quality.
4 sourcesMay 27Low
- Culture· UAE
Dubai allocates Dh27.7 million in Eidiya for Eid Al Adha beneficiaries
The Dubai Community Development Authority has distributed Dh27.7 million in 'Eidiya' to over 11,700 beneficiaries for Eid Al Adha. This initiative is part of Dubai's ongoing efforts to enhance social support during festive occasions. The successful implementation of this program may lead to similar initiatives in the future, reinforcing the government's commitment to community welfare.
3 sourcesMay 27Low
- Culture· UAE
UAE Prepares for Eid Al Adha with Extensive Mosque Readiness and Humanitarian Aid to Gaza
The UAE has mobilized resources to prepare 1,635 mosques across Dubai and Sharjah for Eid Al Adha celebrations. This initiative coincides with the delivery of 930 tonnes of relief to Gaza, reflecting the UAE's commitment to humanitarian efforts during this festive period. As travel increases and community engagement rises, the UAE is likely to continue its humanitarian outreach in the region.
5 sourcesMay 27Low
- Culture· MENA
Sun to Align Directly Above Holy Kaaba on May 28, 2026
The sun will align directly above the Holy Kaaba in Makkah on May 28, 2026, at approximately 12:18 PM Makkah time. This rare astronomical event occurs twice a year and is part of a significant 33-year cycle, drawing interest from both astronomers and the Muslim community. The alignment reinforces the connection between celestial events and religious practices, potentially inspiring further studies in astronomy and cultural significance.
3 sourcesMay 27Low
- Culture· UAE
UAE Celebrates Eid Al Adha with Increased Commercial Activity and Festive Decorations
The UAE is experiencing a surge in festive decorations and commercial activity as Eid Al Adha approaches. This vibrant atmosphere is triggered by families preparing for the holiday, leading to increased foot traffic in shopping centers and a rise in e-commerce demand. The long-term implication suggests a positive economic outlook for the UAE, with potential growth in both retail and online sectors during this festive period.
3 sourcesMay 27Low
- Culture· MENA
Hajj Media Forum concludes with over 13500 attendees in Mecca
The third edition of the 'Hajj Media Forum' was successfully held in Mecca, providing extensive support and services to media professionals. The event was triggered by the need to enhance media readiness for the upcoming Hajj season, aligning with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 goals. Long-term, the forum is expected to set a precedent for future media engagements during Hajj, significantly improving the experience for pilgrims and the global audience.
3 sourcesMay 26Low
- Culture· World
Cannes Film Festival concludes with unexpected award results
The 79th Cannes Film Festival wrapped up on May 23, 2026, with an awards ceremony that surprised many attendees. The unexpected outcomes of the awards may influence future film trends and festival participation. As the film industry reflects on these results, new opportunities and shifts in the types of films that gain recognition may emerge in upcoming festivals.
3 sourcesMay 26Moderate
- Culture· World
Cristian Mungiu's 'Fjord' wins Palme d'Or at Cannes Film Festival
Cristian Mungiu's film 'Fjord' has won the prestigious Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival, marking his second win at the event. This recognition comes as the film addresses pressing themes of political polarization and child abuse, resonating with current global societal issues. Mungiu's continued success is likely to enhance his influence in international cinema and draw attention to the complex narratives he explores.
4 sourcesMay 26Moderate
- Culture· UAE
Dubai implements free parking and adjusted public transport for Eid Al Adha 2026
Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority has announced free parking and revised public transport schedules for the upcoming Eid Al Adha holiday in 2026. This initiative is aimed at accommodating the expected surge in travel during the holiday weekend. The effectiveness of these measures will likely influence future transport policies during peak travel periods.
3 sourcesMay 25Low
- Culture· World
Sharjah named Guest of Honour at Warsaw International Book Fair 2026
Sharjah has been selected as the Guest of Honour for the 2026 Warsaw International Book Fair, marking a historic first for an Arab city. This recognition is part of Sharjah's ongoing efforts to enhance cultural dialogue and showcase Emirati literature on a global stage. The long-term implication is expected to be strengthened cultural ties and increased collaboration between Arab and European communities.
3 sourcesMay 25Low
- Culture· MENA
UAE and Pakistan Announce Eid Al Adha Holiday Closures and Travel Advisories
Eid Al Adha holidays have been officially announced in the UAE and Pakistan, with related travel advisories issued. The immediate preparations are driven by the significance of the holiday and the expected surge in travel activity. Authorities are focused on ensuring safety and smooth transit during this busy period of community engagement and travel.
4 sourcesMay 25Low
- Culture· World
Judith Chalmers, iconic British travel presenter, passes away at 90
Judith Chalmers has died at the age of 90. Her family announced her passing after a long battle with Alzheimer's disease, marking the end of an era for British television. The television industry is expected to honor her legacy through tributes and retrospectives on her influential career in travel programming.
3 sourcesMay 25Low