Riyadh | July 20, 2025 — In a deeply emotional moment for Saudi Arabia, Prince Al-Waleed bin Khaled bin Talal Al Saud, famously known as the “Sleeping Prince,” passed away on Friday, July 19, 2025. He had been in a coma for nearly two decades following a traumatic car accident in 2005.
A Prince Who Slept Through Time
Prince Al-Waleed, born in April 1990, was the eldest son of Prince Khaled bin Talal and a nephew to Saudi billionaire Prince Al-Waleed bin Talal. In 2005, while studying at a military academy in London, he was involved in a horrific car crash that resulted in a brain hemorrhage and severe internal bleeding. The then 15-year-old prince was immediately airlifted to Riyadh’s King Abdulaziz Medical City and placed on life support.
Over the years, he became a symbol of unwavering hope and familial devotion. Despite remaining in a minimally conscious state for 20 years, his father, Prince Khaled, refused to end life support. The family stood firm in their faith, believing in the possibility of a miracle recovery.
Heartfelt Tributes and Global Condolences
News of the prince’s passing has prompted an outpouring of grief across Saudi Arabia and the broader Middle East. The Global Imams Council offered its condolences to the Royal Family and the nation, acknowledging the long and emotional journey the family endured.
Condolences have poured in from royals, religious leaders, and citizens across the Gulf.
Final Farewell
Funeral prayers for the late prince were held on Saturday, July 20, 2025:
- For men: Imam Turki bin Abdullah Mosque in Riyadh, after Asr prayers.
- For women: King Faisal Specialist Hospital, after Dhuhr prayers.
Condolences will be received for three days at the Al-Fakhriyah Palace.
A Symbol of Faith, Patience, and Parental Devotion
Prince Al-Waleed became known worldwide not only because of his royal lineage, but because of the heart-wrenching devotion his family showed during his prolonged coma. Videos frequently circulated on social media showing small, reflexive movements—raising a finger or twitching a foot—especially during Quran recitations.
His father’s steadfast refusal to withdraw life support won widespread public admiration. Many saw the prince’s room—equipped with full medical support and often filled with spiritual music and prayer—as a sanctuary of faith.
What Put HAl-Waleed bin Khaled in a Coma?
Doctors from around the world, including specialists from the U.S. and Europe, confirmed that Prince Al-Waleed suffered severe brain trauma. Although medical experts maintained that the likelihood of recovery was minimal, the royal family clung to rare neurological cases that offered hope.
According to neurologists, the prince likely remained in a persistent vegetative state, though he occasionally displayed signs of minimal consciousness. No meaningful recovery, however, was observed throughout the two decades.
A Legacy Beyond Royalty
His story inspired thousands across the Arab world, serving as a reminder of the resilience of the human body and the strength of familial bonds. Social media played a pivotal role in keeping his memory alive, as his father posted updates, clips, and heartfelt prayers for years.
Even in silence, the “Sleeping Prince” spoke volumes—about love, patience, and unyielding faith.
