Prince Al-Waleed, known as Saudi Arabia’s “Sleeping Prince,” has died at age 36 after remaining in a coma since a 2005 car crash in London.

A Life Frozen in Time: From Promise to Coma

Prince Al-Waleed bin Khalid bin Talal bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, born April 1990, was a member of Saudi Arabia’s royal family and the eldest son of Prince Khalid bin Talal (nephew of billionaire Prince Al-Waleed bin Talal). At 15, while attending a military academy in London, he was tragically involved in a car crash that resulted in severe brain hemorrhage and internal bleeding.

He slipped into a coma and was transferred to King Abdulaziz Medical City in Riyadh, where he remained under life support until his death on July 19, 2025, at age 36 .

A Father’s Vigil: Two Decades of Devotion

Prince Khalid bin Talal’s unwavering devotion shaped Al-Waleed’s story. Refusing to withdraw life support, he stayed by his son’s bedside, adorned with prayers and seasonal decor—expressing hope and faith. Occasional slight movements—like small hand or finger gestures—provided fleeting glimpses of interaction and fueled public empathy.

National and Spiritual Mourning

The announcement prompted an outpouring of condolences across the Middle East. The Global Imams Council extended heartfelt sympathy to the royal family, praising Prince Khalid’s patience and faith. Social media users, using the hashtag #SleepingPrince, expressed sorrow and admiration for the family’s resilience.

Funeral and Final Religious Rites

Funeral prayers took place on July 20, 2025, at the Imam Turki bin Abdullah Mosque in Riyadh following Asr prayers. Arrangements included separate venues for men and women, per tradition. The royal court, through a concise statement, affirmed that Al-Waleed would be laid to rest in accordance with Islamic rites.

The Prince’s Quiet Legacy

Though he never recovered consciousness, Al-Waleed’s life became a symbol of enduring hope, paternal devotion, and the complexities of critical care ethics. His story, covered widely in Middle Eastern media, touched many—offering a reflection on faith, perseverance, and familial love.

Key Details Snapshot

Aspect	Details
Name	Al-Waleed bin Khalid bin Talal bin Abdulaziz Al Saud
Born	April 1990, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Age at Death	36 (died July 19, 2025)
Coma	Began after a 2005 London car crash at age 15 paused in a military academy
Hospital	King Abdulaziz Medical City, Riyadh
Life Support	Maintained under father’s care until passing

The passing of Prince Al-Waleed—the “Sleeping Prince”—marks the end of a poignant chapter defined by tragedy, loyalty, and public fascination. His life in stasis served as a moving reminder of a father’s love and human dignity even amid profound adversity.