Prince Al-Waleed bin Khalid bin Talal Al Saud, affectionately known as Saudi Arabia’s ‘Sleeping Prince,’ has died at the age of 36 after spending nearly 20 years in a coma.
The prince had remained unresponsive since a tragic car accident in 2005.
His death was announced by his father, Prince Khaled bin Talal bin Abdulaziz, in a deeply emotional post on X (formerly Twitter), quoting a verse from the Quran: “O reassured soul, return to your Lord, well-pleased and pleasing [to Him], and enter My Paradise.”
He added, “With hearts that believe in Allah’s will and decree, and with deep sorrow, we mourn our beloved son.”
Prince Al-Waleed had been studying at a military academy in London when the accident occurred.
A severe brain hemorrhage during surgery left him in a coma, and he remained on life support in King Abdulaziz Medical City in Riyadh from then on.
Despite medical consultations from specialists around the world and fleeting signs of movement, his condition never meaningfully improved.
Over the years, Prince Khaled stood by his son with unshaken hope.
He refused to end life support and remained steadfast in prayer, often sharing heartfelt updates and images from his son’s bedside during religious festivals and important occasions.
Just weeks ago, during Eid al-Adha, Prince Khaled and his other sons visited the prince and prayed for a miracle.
Funeral prayers for Prince Al-Waleed will be held on Sunday, July 20.
For men, prayers will take place after Asr at Imam Turki bin Abdullah Mosque in Riyadh. The women’s prayer will be held after Dhuhr at King Faisal Specialist Hospital.
ALSO READ: Arunachal minister condemns Roing abuse case, vows stronger child protection measures
Condolences will be received from July 20 to July 22.
Men may visit Prince Al-Waleed bin Talal’s palace in the Al-Fakhriyah district, while women can offer their condolences after Maghrib prayers during the same period.
Prince Al-Waleed’s story touched the hearts of many in the kingdom and beyond — a poignant reminder of a family’s enduring hope and devotion amid two decades of silence.
