Prince Al-Waleed bin Khaled bin Talal Al Saud, widely known as Saudi Arabia’s “Sleeping Prince,” has passed away at the age of 36, nearly two decades after a tragic car accident left him in a coma.

His death was announced on Saturday, July 19, 2025, by his father, Prince Khaled bin Talal bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. The prince’s story touched millions across the Arab world and beyond, symbolizing a rare and deeply emotional struggle with hope, medical uncertainty, and the unbreakable bond between a father and son.

His life was forever changed in 2005 when, as a 16-year-old studying at a military college in London, he suffered a severe brain hemorrhage following a devastating car crash.

After the accident, Prince Al-Waleed was transferred to King Abdulaziz Medical City in Riyadh, where he remained under constant medical supervision for the remainder of his life.

He was kept on ventilator support and monitored around the clock by teams of doctors and specialists. Though there were rare moments of minor physical response—such as moving his fingers or blinking—he never regained full consciousness.

His father, Prince Khaled bin Talal, remained steadfastly by his side, publicly refusing to withdraw life support despite mounting pressure over the years. His unwavering commitment drew both admiration and curiosity, turning Prince Al-Waleed into a symbol of enduring parental devotion.

“With hearts believing in Allah’s will and decree, and with deep sorrow and sadness, we mourn our beloved son,” Prince Khaled wrote on X (formerly Twitter), announcing the death.

Known affectionately as the “Sleeping Prince” by the Saudi public, Al-Waleed became a figure of national sympathy. Over the years, occasional updates about his condition would go viral, with brief videos showing him responding to sounds or opening his eyes stirring renewed hope among followers.

Many across Saudi Arabia prayed for his recovery, and the royal family’s perseverance became a testament to familial love and faith in the face of medical despair.

Al-Waleed’s mother, siblings, and extended family also remained closely involved in his care, and his story captured the attention of millions throughout the region.

Public sentiment around his case often reflected broader themes of cultural values, religious belief, and ethical questions surrounding prolonged life support and medical intervention.

Born into the powerful and prominent House of Saud, Prince Al-Waleed was a member of one of the kingdom’s most recognized royal families. His uncle, Prince Al-Waleed bin Talal, is a billionaire businessman and investor, further raising the profile of the young prince’s long medical battle.

Now, after 20 years of silent endurance, Prince Al-Waleed’s journey has come to an end. Condolences have poured in from royal family members, government officials, and citizens across the Gulf region, all expressing sorrow over his death and admiration for the strength shown by his family over the past two decades.

The royal household will share details of the funeral and burial arrangements, which will adhere to Islamic tradition. As Saudi Arabia mourns the passing of the “Sleeping Prince,” his legacy will be remembered as one of resilience, unwavering love, and the profound impact of hope—even in the most uncertain of circumstances.