Saudi’s ‘Sleeping Prince’ dies at 36 after 20 years in a coma

Saudi Arabia’s “Sleeping Prince” Dies at 36 After Two Decades in Coma
A Royal Tragedy That Touched Millions
Prince Al-Waleed bin Khaled bin Talal Al Saud, known around the world as Saudi Arabia’s “Sleeping Prince,” has passed away at the age of 36, following a tragic car accident that left him in a coma for over two decades.

Born in April 1990, Prince Al-Waleed was just 15 years old when his life came to a standstill. While pursuing military studies in London in 2005, he was involved in a devastating car crash that caused catastrophic brain injuries and severe internal bleeding. The accident thrust the young royal into a deep coma — a condition he would remain in for the next 20 years.

A Father’s Unwavering Hope
Following the incident, Prince Al-Waleed was flown back to Saudi Arabia and admitted to King Abdulaziz Medical City in Riyadh. It was there that his father, Prince Khaled bin Talal Al Saud, stood by him with unwavering dedication.

Prince Khaled, a well-known member of the Saudi royal family and nephew of billionaire investor Prince Al-Waleed bin Talal, refused to give up on his son. Year after year, despite the grim prognosis, he chose to keep his son on life support, holding on to the belief that a miracle was still possible.

His devotion turned the sterile hospital room into a sanctuary of hope. During every Eid, Ramadan, and national celebration, the prince’s room was decorated with lights, family photos, and heartfelt prayers. These small gestures became powerful symbols of love, faith, and unshaken resilience.

A Prince Who United a Nation in Prayer
Over the years, Prince Al-Waleed’s story captured the attention of not just his country, but the world. Nicknamed “Dede” by his loved ones, he was no longer just a comatose royal—he became a living embodiment of a father’s loyalty and a family’s hope.

Visitors from across the kingdom and beyond made pilgrimages to his hospital bedside, offering prayers and silent support. His father often updated the public on his condition via social media, including one viral tweet from April 2024, which included a video clip showing the prince unconscious in bed while surrounded by Eid decorations.

The emotional sight of a nation collectively praying for the recovery of a prince who never woke up was a poignant reminder of the human connection behind royal titles.

A Heartbreaking Farewell
On Saturday, July 19, 2025, the long vigil came to its sorrowful end. Prince Khaled took to social media to share the devastating news with the world. Posting a black-and-white photo of his son lying still in his hospital bed, he wrote in Arabic:

“With hearts full of faith in Allah’s decree and destiny, and with profound sadness and sorrow, we mourn our beloved son Prince Al-Waleed bin Khaled bin Talal bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, may Allah have mercy on him, who passed away to Allah’s mercy today.”

A funeral prayer service was held the following day, attended by members of the royal family, friends, and grieving citizens. The outpouring of condolences reflected how deeply this young man, despite never speaking a public word, had impacted hearts around the globe.

A Legacy Beyond Words
Though his life was largely lived in silence, Prince Al-Waleed bin Khaled bin Talal Al Saud became a symbol of perseverance, hope, and the unbreakable bond between a father and his child. His story resonated with millions and offered a powerful reminder that love does not fade with time or silence—it endures, even in the stillest moments.

Rest in peace, Prince Al-Waleed. May your family find comfort in the prayers and love being sent from all corners of the world.

👉 Please share your condolences in the comments below—and share this story to honor his life and the father who never gave up on him.