Bodies of two Belgian tourists found after flash flooding in Jordan
The pair had been part of a group of 18 holidaymakers visiting Wadi Al Nakhil, a popular adventure tourism spot, when they were caught in the torrent.
Two other children in the family were found alive, Jordanian police said.
Sunday's flooding prompted the evacuation of hundreds of tourists from the Jordan's famous Petra archaeological site, a Unesco-listed World Heritage site.
No casualties were reported from the flooding at Petra, officials said.
The bodies of the mother and son were found on Monday morning in the Shobak region, about 200km south of Amman, according to statement from Jordan's General Security Directorate.
Fourteen other tourists, all Czech nationals, had been rescued in the area on Sunday before search operations were called off for the night due to weather conditions and difficult terrain.
Civil defence personnel, police and gendarmerie forces all took part in the search, state news agency Petra said. The two bodies were recovered on Monday and an investigation has been launched into the tragedy, it added.
Jordan's meteorological authority published a video showing the floods hitting the Petra archaeological site.
It showed holidaymakers gathering at the entrance of the Treasury, one of the site's most iconic tombs, before being evacuated. Similar evacuations have occurred in the past.
Jordan frequently experiences flash flooding when dry desert valleys are hit with heavy seasonal rains. At least three people died in 2021 when floodwaters swept away a car, while more than 30 people were killed in flooding that hit Petra and the Dead Sea coast in two incidents during 2018.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Tourism Breaking News
3 hours ago
- Tourism Breaking News
Qatar Airways resumes four non-stop flights to Malta
Post Views: 18 Qatar Airways resumes operations today in Malta with four non-stop flights a week between Hamad International Airport (DOH) and Malta International Airport (MLA). The latest addition to the airline's network in Europe affirms its commitment to maintaining global connectivity. Malta is home to Valletta, its capital city declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Mdina, its old capital with more than 4,000 years of history. With 300 days of sun, the country invites travellers to explore its sun-drenched coasts, rich history, and cultural experiences. Qatar Airways Chief Commercial Officer, Mr. Thierry Antinori, said: 'Qatar Airways remains at the forefront of supporting global connectivity with its resumption of operations in Malta. As the only airline in the Middle East with non-stop services to and from Malta, we deliver convenient travel experiences to our passengers who seek to enjoy the vibrant nature of Malta and its landscape. We welcome global travellers to travel seamlessly and conveniently with the World's Best Airline, through its home and hub, the award-winning Hamad International Airport.' Malta International Airport CEO, Mr. Alan Borg, said: 'The return of Qatar Airways as one of our airline partners is a welcome addition to our schedule, contributing to our efforts to expand our connectivity. A testament to our industry's resilience, we remain committed to facilitating the airline in increasing its operational growth in the region.' Malta Tourism Authority CEO, Mr. Carlo Micallef, said: 'We welcome the resumption of the Qatar Airways direct service between Doha and Malta. Qatar Airways' return signifies a strong recognition of Malta's tourism potential. The new schedule will strengthen Malta's connectivity with a variety of attractive and lucrative tourism source markets, and the Malta Tourism Authority remains fully committed to working in partnership with the airline to maximise business opportunities for Malta whilst ensuring the route's sustained long-term success.' Qatar Airways, a benchmark for excellence in the industry, continues to fly passengers from global markets to its European network of nearly 50 destinations through the world-class Hamad International Airport. Qatar Airways flight to Malta (MLA) Departing every Wednesday and Friday: Doha (DOH) to Malta (MLA) – Flight QR381: Departure 02:05; Arrival 06:45 Malta (MLA) to Doha (DOH) – Flight QR382: Departure 10:15; Arrival 16:20 Departing every Monday and Saturday: Doha (DOH) to Malta (MLA) – Flight QR383: Departure 08:45; Arrival 13:25 Malta (MLA) to Doha (DOH) – Flight QR384: Departure 17:05; Arrival 23:10 For bookings and more information, please visit or the airline's mobile application.
What's On
2 days ago
- What's On
7 experiential stays in the GCC you need to check out in 2025
Travel is no longer just about the hotel room and buffet dinner — it's about immersive, experiential stays that help you disconnect from routine, reconnect with yourself, and create memories that last long after checkout. Across the GCC, travellers are seeking meaningful escapes that offer a sense of place, purpose, and personality. Think curated adventures, authentic local flavour, and the kind of hospitality that feels more like home than hotel. And the best part? These experiences are right on your doorstep — no long-haul flights, no complicated logistics. Just easy-to-plan summer stays that are close to home, close to heart, and rich in discovery. Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Where: Nizwa, Oman Why: Breathtaking views of the Omani mountains, full immersion into local culture Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar is touted as the Middle East's highest five-star resort, perched atop the peaks of this magnificent mountain range. The resort sits just one hour away from the Nizwa Fort, and property itself is constructed like a traditional Omani fort, and the whole experience is designed to immerse you into local culture completely, from a welcome marked by the rhythmic beats of traditional drumming and the rich aroma of Omani coffee and dates, to majlis courtyards, advanced mountain climbing, ziplining and the stillness you'll find in few places. What's not to like? @anantarajabalakhdar Our Habitas Ras Abrouq Where: Ras Abrouq, Qatar Why: Luxury on the Qatari coastline, disconnect from city life Our Habitas Ras Abrouq is situated on the Arabian Gulf at the edge of the UNESCO-protected Al-Reem Biosphere Reserve, and offers a slice of dune-laden, Qatari coastline you need to see to believe. With a wide range of villas draped in raw, rustic look and feel, this is one spot you can go to and completely disconnect from city life. While there, you'll be immersed in the nature, exploring the sand with their safari experience, eating at their farm-to-table restaurant and living the best of the Qatari music music, art and cultural scene. Of course, wellness is a vital part of the Our Habitas brand, and here you'll find tailor-made experiences. @habitasrasabrouq Desert Rock Where: Red Sea, Saudi Arabia Why: Built into ancient rock formations, sweeping desert views A stunning shift from the overwater villas that the Red Sea coast is all about right now – Desert Rock takes the land, honours it and offers you an experience so raw, so rugged and so earthy, it's unlike anything you've ever seen. The resort is built within the rock formations and blends into the cliffs as if a part of the landscape, and the design is no different. Smooth, ancient lines, raw textures and unparalleled luxury. The experience is also built around the terrain, with villas built into caves, private pools carved from the rock, ziplining and abseiling take place in volcanic valleys, and lantern-lit canyon walks. @desertrockresort Six Senses Zighy Bay Where: Musandam, Oman Why: Omani coastal charm, fishing town history, aquamarine waters Six Senses Zighy Bay will transport you into a most perfect harmony of Omani landscape, both the rugged mountains and the shimmering waters. Located just off the UAE border at Dibba, in the Musandam Peninsula, it's been named after a quiet fishing town right next it, and will push you into an experience that brings that far-flung historic world to life. This is luxury personified, the Omani way. It's perched right at the coast, featuring 82 Omani-style pool villas and a spectacular view of aquamarine expanse – just what you'll need to disconnect from hectic everyday life this summer. @sixsenseszighybay Our Habitas AlUla Complete with 96 villas dotted across the vast desert landscape, rooms at Habitas AlUla are set between manmade dunes for optimum privacy, and many feature epic mountain views from their private terraces. The best way to get around is on an electric bike, and there's something truly freeing about whizzing through the valley that way (although there's buggies too for those looking to give their legs a rest). From yoga and mindfulness, to date seed body scrubs and herbal aromatherapy, Thuraya focuses on centuries-old practices to help clear the path to self-discovery and awaken focus on both our physical and energetic bodies. @habitasalula The Ned, Doha Where: Doha, Qatar Why: All the art and culture, championing female creatives Spotlighting Middle Eastern female creatives, The Ned in Doha is housed inside Qatar's former Ministry of Interior. Inside, art enthusiasts can find themselves in the presence and power of over 350 artworks by over 100 Middle Eastern artists, most of them women. The collection is sprinkled across the hotel and is permanent. The collection has been curated by Wadha Al-Aqeedi and Elina Sairanen, the co-founders of Mathqaf Arab Museum of Modern Art. On the outside, the architecture will take you back to the brutalist design of the 1970s. Art, inside and out. @theneddoha Nujuma, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve Where: Red Sea, Saudi Arabia Why: Overwater villas, the Ritz-Carlton brand of luxury Now this is an escape – set on the remote Ummuhat Islands, Nujuma is a vision of raw, tranquil escapism, the kind one pictures when beach escapes with flowing waters and fresh, sweet air are mentioned. The 63 villas – twenty overwater, the rest nestled along the beach – fuse Saudi touches with that sort of organic island design, with shell-like curves, handcrafted accents, and private infinity pools overlooking the water. The resort immerses you completely into the nature, offering days spent exploring coral reefs, diving excursions led by marine experts, or cycling along the resort's pathways. Conservation House brings the culture, showcasing Saudi traditions through art, books, and design. @nujumareserve Images: Social Media
Khaleej Times
7 days ago
- Khaleej Times
Summer in Lisbon: Things to do in the European city
A place where history and authenticity beckon at every corner, where age old customs meet contemporary flair and tradition blends seamlessly with modernity, Lisbon is a European city quite like none other. Also called the Queen of the Seas given its maritime success since centuries, Lisboa as it is known in Portuguese is one of the oldest cities in western Europe. With abundant sunshine almost all year through, Lisbon with its charming sights, proximity to some of the most beautiful beaches and easy-going vibe attracts visitors from all over. The pleasant Mediterranean climate makes the city a huge draw especially during summers and a trip to the capital of Portugal sure does live up to all the expectations. Compelling sights If you are someone who is fascinated by history, start your sojourn of the city by visiting the magnificent Belam tower which is arguably one of the most famous monuments of Lisbon. Torre de Belém as it is also called was a symbol of the nation's control over the seas and a site of strategic importance. The heavily armed bastion protruding into the sea soon became a powerful symbol of Portuguese identity. The tower crafted in the Manueline style of architecture that was popular in the 16th century is today a designated Unesco World Heritage site. While here, do not miss the utterly spectacular 170 feet Monument to the Discoveries perched on the northern bank of the Tagus River. This lime stone creation was instituted to mark 500 years of the death of Infante Dom Henrique (Henry the Navigator). It also has statues of several Portuguese explorers and honours their contribution to the golden era of Portugal. Another classic example of the Portuguese Gothic Manueline style of architecture is the Jerónimos Monastery that dates back to the early 16th century. Built on the site where an erstwhile church existed, the monastery, which once served as a place of refuge before sailors set on voyage, houses the tombs of Portuguese royalty and even Vasco do Gama. The monument replete with ornate cloisters, elaborately carved pillars, engraved columns and thoughtfully curated maritime motifs is a reflection of the superior craftsmanship that existed during the yesteryears. It is key to note that both these monuments attract large crowds each day and hence it is recommended to plan your visit in advance. Arriving before the crowds swell, buying tickets online and opting for 'skip the line' facilities are some good ideas. Unearthing the city's past It is important to note that Lisbon suffered a catastrophic disaster on All Saints Day (01-Nov) in 1755 which caused widespread damage to the port city. It was hit by a massive earthquake followed by devastating fires and a powerful tsunami that reduced the city to rubble and killed several thousand people. Visit the Quake — Lisbon Earthquake Museum — for an engaging insight into this tragedy and more importantly how the city rebuilt itself. The museum documents important facts related to earthquakes, how and why they occur and how cities must be prepared for it. Highly interactive, this one gives a unique perspective on the evolution of Lisbon. The Lisboa story centre is also a great idea to acquaint yourself with the development of Lisbon right from the Roman era to the present day. It takes visitors on an interesting journey through space and time and chronicles the ups and downs of the city including the after effects of the earthquake and how the city shifted to broader avenues from narrow streets and to prefabricated buildings to minimise the effects of potential future natural disasters. Bustling streetscapes, vantage viewpoints Pastel hued building facades, Azulejos decorating the interiors and exteriors of churches, homes and shops and the quintessential yellow trams snaking their way through the city's winding cobbled streets are some things that are synonymous with Lisbon. Visit the Tile Museum housed in a 15th century convent to learn all about the history of the blue Portuguese Azulejo that is intrinsic to Portugal's culture. Take a ride on tram #28 to soak in the city's unique vibe as it takes you along some of its most famous landmarks. The Alfama district is one of the oldest in the city and a stroll along the streets gives you a feel of its vintage charm. The Baixa and Chiado districts located in the heart of Lisbon offer a host of attractions including the vibrant Rossio square and the historic, harbour facing Praça do Comércio (Commercial Square) which was once known as the 'door' to Lisbon. Rebuilt after it was destroyed by the earthquake, the commercial square is today filled with business establishments, government offices, restaurants and cafes. With Rua Augusta Arch as the backdrop and the statue of king Joseph I in the middle, it also serves as a venue for some of the city's important events. While in the vicinity do not forget to drop in at the Livraria Bertrand which is the oldest book store in the world located in Chiado. Given that Lisbon is built on seven hills with an overall elevation of about seven feet, there are several lifts and funiculars from where you can catch some stunning views of the city. Take time to visit the Santa Justa Lift to enjoy some panoramic views and also to ride on the Bica funicular in a vintage cheery tram with wooden interiors and brass fittings which treats you to some beautiful views of the Tagus estuary. The 11th century Castelo de São Jorge is a significant monument and has fortifications dating to as far as the 6th century BC. The castle complex also has a museum and offers a 360-degree view of the landscape including the city and the Tagus River. High-spirited No visit to Lisbon is complete without experiencing its energetic vibe and lively ambience. Head to the LX factory, which was once the heart of the textile industry. Today it is a hip, creative quarter filled with concept stores, niche boutiques and trendy restaurants making it a popular place to hang out by both tourists and locals. Further, it is a great avenue to view some dynamic and unconventional street art. If you want to experience the city's thriving night life head over to the iconic Pink Street. And before you leave, do not forget to taste the city's most famous food, the 'pastel de nata', which are essentially custard filled pastries available in most cafes and restaurants and pick up some ceramics and sardines as souvenirs!
