Prince Al-Waleed bin Khaled bin Talal, famously known as Saudi Arabia’s Sleeping Prince, has passed away at the age of 36. The announcement came over the weekend, marking the end of a tragic and emotional story that spanned almost two decades. His family confirmed his death through a public statement and social media posts that triggered an outpouring of condolences across the Kingdom.
Prince Al-Waleed had been in a coma since 2005 after a devastating car accident in London. Just 15 years old at the time, he suffered a severe brain hemorrhage and was flown to King Abdulaziz Medical City in Riyadh. From then on, he remained in a vegetative state, connected to a ventilator, and received continuous care. Despite efforts from leading international medical experts, the prince never regained consciousness.
His father, Prince Khaled bin Talal, shared a Quranic verse in his social media tribute:
“O tranquil soul, return to your Lord, well-pleased and pleasing [to Him]. Enter among My [righteous] servants and enter My Paradise.”
He followed with a heartfelt message, saying, “With hearts that believe in God’s will and decree, and with deep sadness and sorrow, we mourn our beloved son.”
Funeral Details and Mourning Period Announced
Prince Khaled announced that funeral prayers would take place on Sunday, inviting all those who wished to pay respects. The royal family also announced three days of mourning—Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday—where members of the public and dignitaries could express their condolences.
{يَا أَيَّتُهَا النَّفْسُ الْمُطْمَئِنَّةُ، ارْجِعِي إِلَىٰ رَبِّكِ رَاضِيَةً مَّرْضِيَّةً، فَادْخُلِي فِي عِبَادِي، وَادْخُلِي جَنَّتِي}
بقلوب مؤمنة بقضاء الله وقدره وببالغ الحزن والأسى ننعى إبننا الغالي
الأمير الوليد بن خالد بن طلال بن عبدالعزيز آل سعود رحمه الله
الذي انتقل… pic.twitter.com/QQBbMWGOOG— خالد بن طلال بن عبد العزيز ( أبو الوليد ) (@allah_cure_dede) July 19, 2025
The prince was a military college student at the time of the accident. His sudden hospitalization and long-term coma captured public attention, drawing sympathy not only in Saudi Arabia but around the Arab world. Over the years, the family maintained a constant vigil. They provided updates about his condition, demonstrating their unwavering hope and love. Occasionally, they shared images and short video clips that offered rare glimpses of the prince lying in his hospital bed, surrounded by medical equipment but dressed in traditional Saudi attire.
Despite his condition, the Sleeping Prince remained a symbol of perseverance and parental devotion.
Read more: Overseas Pakistanis Vital to National Growth, Says CM Maryam
Rumors and Viral Misunderstandings
In April this year, false rumors about Prince Al-Waleed waking up from his coma briefly went viral. A video circulated online claimed the prince had opened his eyes after nearly 20 years. The clip, however, was composed of old footage with misleading captions, falsely suggesting a miraculous recovery.
The video quickly spread on social media platforms and gave false hope to many who had followed the prince’s journey over the years. However, the family later clarified that no change had occurred in his condition, reiterating that he remained unconscious.
Now, with his passing, a deeply emotional chapter for the family and the nation comes to a close. His story, marked by tragedy, patience, and enduring love, left a lasting impact on those who followed it for years.
The Sleeping Prince may not have woken up, but he became a quiet symbol of resilience. His name will be remembered not for royal privileges or public speeches, but for the love of a family that never gave up on him—and for a nation that grieved with them.
As Saudi Arabia mourns, tributes continue to pour in from citizens, royals, and leaders across the region. Prince Al-Waleed bin Khaled bin Talal is now finally at peace.
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