Who Was Saudi's ‘Sleeping Prince’ Who Died After 20 Years In A Coma

Prince Al-Waleed bin Khalid bin Talal Al Saud, fondly known across Saudi Arabia and beyond as the 'Sleeping Prince', has passed away at the age of 36. His death marks the end of a deeply emotional, decades-long medical struggle following a tragic accident that left him in a coma for 20 years.

Tragedy strikes young royal during military training

In 2005, while studying at a military academy in London, Prince Al-Waleed suffered a severe car crash that resulted in a traumatic brain injury. A surgery to address internal bleeding in the brain led to complications, leaving the young prince unresponsive and dependent on life support ever since. He was transferred to King Abdulaziz Medical City in Riyadh where he remained under constant medical supervision.

Funeral and condolence details shared

Funeral prayers for Prince Al-Waleed are scheduled for Sunday, July 20. Male mourners will gather at Imam Turki bin Abdullah Mosque in Riyadh for prayers after Asr, while prayers for women will be held after Dhuhr at King Faisal Specialist Hospital.
Condolences will be received from July 20 to July 22. Men can visit Prince Al-Waleed bin Talal’s palace in Riyadh’s Al-Fakhriyah district, while women are welcome to offer condolences after Maghrib prayers during the same period.

Father’s faith

Prince Al-Waleed’s father, Prince Khaled bin Talal, remained a pillar of strength throughout the 20-year ordeal. Refusing to disconnect life support, he clung to hope, praying fervently for a miracle. On several occasions, including major Islamic holidays like Eid al-Adha, Prince Khaled publicly shared prayers and touching family moments at his son’s bedside.
Even minor signs of movement over the years were celebrated by the family as glimmers of hope. Despite enlisting medical experts from around the world, Prince Al-Waleed’s condition showed no significant improvement.

Emotional farewell on social media

Confirming his son’s death, Prince Khaled posted a verse from the Quran on X (formerly Twitter), writing: “O reassured soul, return to your Lord, well-pleased and pleasing [to Him], and enter My Paradise.” He expressed deep sorrow while affirming his faith in Allah’s will and destiny.

Prince Al-Waleed’s story has resonated with people throughout the Middle East, symbolising unwavering parental love, hope, and the human spirit’s endurance.