Saudi Arabia’s ‘Sleeping Prince’ Al-Waleed Passes Away After 20 Years in Coma
A profound wave of grief has swept across Saudi Arabia and the wider Arab world following the passing of Prince Al-Waleed bin Khalid bin Talal Al Saud, fondly known as the “Sleeping Prince.” He died at the age of 36, having spent the last two decades in a coma resulting from a devastating car accident in 2005.
Prince Al-Waleed, the son of Prince Khalid bin Talal, became a symbol of endurance, faith, and hope across the Kingdom. His prolonged medical condition captivated the hearts of many, with his story transcending borders and touching lives across generations.
Confirming the tragic news, Prince Khalid wrote on his official X (formerly Twitter) handle:
> “O tranquil soul, return to your Lord, well-pleased and pleasing [to Him]. Enter among My [righteous] servants and enter My Paradise.”
“With hearts that believe in God’s will and decree, and with deep sorrow, we mourn our beloved son, Prince Al-Waleed bin Khalid bin Talal bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. May God have mercy on him.”
Funeral prayers are scheduled for Sunday, with mourning gatherings to continue through Monday and Tuesday, in line with royal family tradition.
Prince Al-Waleed’s health had been a subject of both public interest and private devotion over the years. Despite receiving care from leading international medical experts—including American and Spanish specialists—his condition remained unchanged for most of his life. Yet, his family never gave up hope.
In moments that reignited the public’s attention, the prince was occasionally seen showing minor signs of movement. In 2019, Princess Rima bint Talal shared a video of him slightly moving his head, praising God for the gesture. Another photo posted earlier this year stirred social media once again, with Princess Rima writing:
> “Twenty-one years, and you are always in our hearts and prayers. O Allah, heal Your servant Al-Waleed – only You know his weakness.”
In 2020, a brief movement of his hand was widely celebrated as a sign of progress and divine mercy. His father, Prince Khalid, regularly posted bedside images and updates, offering transparency and hope to supporters.
Prince Al-Waleed was a military student when tragedy struck. The 2005 accident left him in a persistent coma from which he never recovered. Yet throughout the years, his story came to embody the virtues of patience, family devotion, and unshaken faith in Allah’s will.
With his passing, Saudi Arabia bids farewell not only to a young royal but to a poignant chapter of quiet strength and resilience. Prince Al-Waleed’s memory will endure, not just within the royal household, but in the hearts of millions who prayed for him and drew inspiration from his unwavering fight for life.
May Allah grant him eternal peace. Ameen.
