Prince Al-Waleed bin Khalid bin Talal Al Saud, famously known across the Arab world and beyond as the “Sleeping Prince,” has died at the age of 36 after spending nearly two decades in a coma following a tragic car accident.
The Saudi royal, who became a symbol of enduring hope for millions, slipped into a coma in 2005 after a devastating traffic collision in London when he was just 15 years old. The accident caused a severe brain hemorrhage and internal injuries, from which he never recovered.
Prince Al-Waleed had been on life support at King Abdulaziz Medical City in Riyadh ever since. Despite his critical condition and bleak prognosis, his father, Prince Khaled bin Talal Al Saud, refused to give up hope, rejecting all recommendations to withdraw life support over the years.
The announcement of his death came on Saturday via a heartfelt message posted on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) by Prince Khaled. The post expressed deep sorrow while affirming faith in God’s will:
“With hearts that believe in Allah’s decree, we mourn the loss of our beloved son, Prince Al-Waleed bin Khaled bin Talal bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. May Allah have mercy on him.”
At the time of the accident, the prince was studying at a military academy in the UK, preparing for a life of service. Instead, he spent the next 19 years in a hospital bed, drawing global attention and sympathy, especially from across the Middle East.
News of his death has sparked an outpouring of emotion online. The hashtag #SleepingPrince has since gone viral, with thousands of users sharing tributes, prayers, and reflections on his story.
“Prince Al-Waleed’s journey touched millions. May his soul rest in peace,” one user posted.
Another wrote, “Your life may have been silent, but your story was loud. Rest well, Sleeping Prince.”
Funeral prayers are scheduled to be held at the Imam Turki bin Abdullah Mosque in Riyadh, where family members, dignitaries, and members of the public are expected to gather in mourning.