A wave of grief spread across Saudi Arabia and beyond as news broke of the passing of Prince Al-Waleed bin Khalid bin Talal Al Saud, widely known as the “Sleeping Prince.” He died at the age of 36, after spending two decades in a coma following a tragic car accident in 2005.
His father, Prince Khalid bin Talal, confirmed the heartbreaking news on social media. Quoting a verse from the Quran, he wrote:
“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 statement expressing deep sorrow and acceptance of God’s will, announcing the prince’s funeral prayers and three days of mourning beginning Sunday.
A Nation Remembers the Sleeping Prince’s Story of Hope and Patience
Prince Al-Waleed was a student at a military college when a devastating accident left him in a coma. Since then, his story has moved millions across the Arab world, becoming a symbol of faith, patience, and enduring love. Despite no medical breakthrough, his family never gave up hope, frequently sharing updates and images from his hospital bedside.
Moments of progress occasionally sparked renewed optimism. In 2019, a viral video showed the prince slowly moving his head. Again in 2020, he appeared to move his hand. Princess Rima bint Talal, his aunt, often shared emotional tributes and prayers, calling him a beloved soul always present in their hearts.
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Even in recent months, the family held hope. In April 2025, a post by Princess Rima revived global attention when she shared a new image and wrote,
“Twenty-one years, and you are always in our hearts and prayers.”
Sadly, all hopes faded on July 19, 2025. The Sleeping Prince Al Waleed’s death marks the end of a long and deeply emotional journey. He leaves behind not just a grieving royal family but also a nation that embraced his story as one of strength, compassion, and unshakable faith.
