Published: July 19, 2025 | By NRI Globe News Desk
In a heartbreaking incident, two British tourists, Mohammed “Mo” El Zayat, 27, and King Williams, 29, tragically lost their lives in a swimming pool at the Duas Palmeiras aparthotel in Albufeira, Portugal, on July 15, 2025. The friends, hailing from Ipswich, UK, were found unresponsive at the bottom of the pool in the early hours, less than 24 hours after arriving for what was meant to be a joyful holiday. This devastating event has raised concerns about pool safety at tourist destinations and left families and friends in mourning.
Details of the Incident
According to Portuguese authorities, the bodies were discovered around 4:30 AM by a friend vacationing with the duo. Emergency services attempted resuscitation, but both men were pronounced dead at the scene. The Portuguese Criminal Investigation Police (Policia Judiciaria) stated there is no evidence of foul play, and the cause of death is under investigation by Portugal’s national medical cabinet, with results expected within a week.
Initial reports from Portuguese newspaper Correio da Manhã suggested the men had been drinking and were unable to swim, potentially contributing to the drowning. However, a close friend refuted these claims, stating, “Neither of them drank alcohol. One strictly abstained due to religious beliefs, and the other made a personal choice to do the same.” A police source also suggested the pool’s unusual design, with a deep 3-meter section in the middle, may have played a role in the tragedy.
Tributes and Community Response
Mo and King were described as “gentle, kind-hearted souls” who “brought light into every room they entered.” Friends and family have paid heartfelt tributes, with King’s sister sharing on social media, “My best friend is really gone. I’m grateful for the childhood we had. I’m grateful for who you became.” She also claimed King died heroically, attempting to save Mo’s life.
In response to the tragedy, a GoFundMe campaign was launched to cover repatriation costs, estimated at £10,000. The fundraiser, organized in Ipswich, has raised over £22,000, reflecting the community’s love and support for the families. The campaign described Mo and King as “warm, loyal, funny, and full of dreams,” emphasizing the profound loss felt by their loved ones.
Albufeira’s Recent Tragedies
This incident marks another sorrowful event in Albufeira, a popular Algarve resort town. In June 2025, a 21-year-old British tourist was found dead after a fall near the Old Town, and Scottish tourist Greg Monks, 38, died after falling down a steep slope during a stag do. These incidents highlight ongoing safety concerns in the region, particularly for British holidaymakers.
Pool Safety Concerns in Portugal
The tragedy has sparked discussions about pool safety in Portugal’s tourist accommodations. A 2018 report by The Portugal News noted the absence of specific legislation for swimming pool safety in domestic and tourism properties, following the drowning of two children in separate incidents. Experts are calling for enhanced safety measures, including clear signage, depth markings, and lifeguard presence, to prevent future tragedies.
Support for the Families
The UK Foreign Office is assisting the families and collaborating with Portuguese authorities. Tributes, including flowers and candles, have been left at Orwell Quay in Ipswich, with messages like “Gone too soon but never forgotten” and “Your spirit lives on in every shared memory.”
Staying Safe While Traveling
This tragic event serves as a reminder for travelers to prioritize safety. The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) advises researching destinations, checking local safety protocols, and avoiding risky behaviors, such as swimming after consuming alcohol. Hotels are also urged to implement proactive safety measures to protect guests.
For those wishing to support the families of Mo and King, donations can be made via the GoFundMe page.
