Prince Al-Waleed bin Khaled bin Talal Al Saud, famously known as the “Sleeping Prince,” has died at the age of 36 after spending nearly two decades in a coma caused by a devastating car crash in London in 2005.
The young prince, a member of the Saudi royal family, was just 15 years old and studying at a military college in the UK when the accident occurred, resulting in a brain haemorrhage and severe internal injuries. He slipped into a coma and never fully regained consciousness.
Since the incident, Prince Al-Waleed had been kept on life support at King Abdulaziz Medical City in Riyadh, where he remained under constant care. Despite the grim medical outlook, his father, Prince Khaled bin Talal Al Saud, remained resolute in his decision to continue treatment, repeatedly refusing to disconnect life support in hopes of a miracle recovery.
The news of his passing was confirmed on Saturday by his father in a heartfelt message posted on X (formerly Twitter). “With hearts believing in Allah’s will and decree, and with deep sorrow and sadness, we mourn our beloved son: Prince Al-Waleed bin Khaled bin Talal bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, may Allah have mercy on him,” the prince wrote.
The announcement has sparked a wave of condolences and emotional tributes across the Arab world and social media platforms. The hashtag #SleepingPrince quickly began trending, with thousands of users sharing prayers, memories, and messages of support for the grieving family.
One user posted, “May Prince Al-Waleed bin Khaled, Rest In Peace. Deepest sympathies to his loved ones.” Another wrote, “Your time on earth was a blessing to your family and the world in general.”
Funeral prayers for the late prince are scheduled to take place at the Imam Turki bin Abdullah Mosque in Riyadh, with members of the royal family and the public expected to pay their final respects.
Prince Al-Waleed’s nearly 19-year-long coma and the dedication of his family, particularly his father, made him a symbol of unwavering parental love and hope throughout the Middle East. His story touched many hearts and highlighted the emotional and ethical challenges surrounding long-term life support.
He leaves behind a legacy not of political achievement or royal duties, but of endurance, faith, and the quiet strength of a family that never gave up.
