Prince Al-Waleed bin Khaled bin Talal Al Saud, known widely as the “Sleeping Prince,” has died at the age of 36 after spending two decades in a coma. He fell into the coma following a tragic car accident in London in 2005 while studying at a military academy. The accident left him with severe brain injuries, and despite being kept on life support for 20 years, he never regained full consciousness. His condition was closely followed across the Arab world, where his story captured the hearts of many.
Over the years, small signs of movement from the prince—such as finger twitches and brief eye openings—offered glimmers of hope to his family and the public. His father, Prince Khaled bin Talal, remained resolute in his decision to keep his son on life support, believing in the possibility of a miracle. The family shared occasional updates through social media, keeping his memory alive and inviting prayers and support from across the region.
News of his death was announced by his father on July 19, 2025, via social media. Funeral prayers were held the following day at the Imam Turki bin Abdullah Mosque in Riyadh, with many Saudis and well-wishers paying their final respects. Separate prayers for women were also conducted at King Faisal Specialist Hospital. Tributes poured in online, and the hashtag #SleepingPrince quickly trended as people expressed their condolences and remembered the prince’s long, quiet journey.
Prince Al-Waleed’s story has come to symbolize a deep intersection of faith, family devotion, and medical endurance. Though he never regained consciousness, the unwavering love of his family and the public’s fascination with his condition ensured he was never forgotten. His passing marks the end of a 20-year vigil and a poignant chapter in Saudi Arabia’s royal narrative.
