By Ghazali Ibrahim
Prince Al-Waleed bin Khalid bin Talal Al Saud, widely known as Saudi Arabia’s “Sleeping Prince,” has died at the age of 36 after spending nearly two decades in a coma, according to a royal court announcement on Saturday.
Funeral prayers are set for Sunday at the Imam Turki bin Abdullah Mosque in Riyadh.
Born in April 1990, Prince Al‑Waleed was just 15 when he suffered a devastating car accident in London in 2005 while studying at a military college. The crash caused a severe brain haemorrhage and left him in a coma.
He was transported back to Riyadh, where he remained under continuous care at King Abdulaziz Medical City, sustained by a ventilator.
His father, Prince Khaled bin Al-Waleed, was unwavering in his devotion, publicly refusing to withdraw life-support despite prolonged medical uncertainty.
Over the years, the family consulted international specialists from the U.S., Spain, and beyond.
Occasional minor physical responses involuntary finger movement in 2020 and other subtle gestures offered glimpses of hope that the prince might eventually awaken.
These moments resonated with Saudis and broader Arab audiences, who embraced him as a symbol of patience and enduring faith.
Following news of his death, condolences flooded social media.
The hashtag #SleepingPrince trended as thousands expressed sorrow and solidarity.
In a heartfelt message posted on X, Prince Khaled announced his son’s passing, writing:
“With hearts believing in Allah’s will and decree, and with deep sorrow and sadness, we mourn our beloved son… may Allah have mercy on him”.
Details released by Khaleej Times and other regional outlets confirm funeral arrangements include special services for men and women at different locations, followed by a three-day condolence period at the family’s palace in Al-Fakhriyah.
Prince Al‑Waleed’s passing draws to a close a story marked by tragedy and enduring parent–child devotion.
His father’s steadfast presence and the family’s public commitment to his care profoundly moved many, making the young prince a quiet yet enduring figure of hope and resilience in the Saudi royal narrative.
