‘Sleeping Prince’ Dies at 36 After 20 Years in a Coma

Saudi Arabia’s “Sleeping Prince,” Al-Waleed bin Khaled bin Talal Al Saud, has passed away at the age of 36 after spending two decades in a coma following a devastating car accident.

Prince Al-Waleed was just 15 years old in 2005 when he suffered traumatic brain injuries and internal bleeding during a crash while studying at a military college in London. The accident left him in a coma from which he never fully recovered.

His father, Prince Khaled bin Talal Al Saud—nephew of billionaire Prince Al Waleed bin Talal—refused to take his son off life support. Instead, he moved him to King Abdulaziz Medical City in Riyadh, where the young royal remained until his death.

The prince’s death was announced on Saturday, July 19, by his father on social media, who wrote in Arabic, “With hearts believing in Allah’s will and decree, and with deep sorrow and sadness, we mourn our beloved son.” A black-and-white photo of the prince in a hospital bed accompanied the message.

Over the years, Prince Khaled frequently posted updates, photos, and videos from his son’s hospital room, showing him decorating it for special occasions like Ramadan, Eid, and Saudi National Day. These touching tributes often went viral, garnering millions of views and an outpouring of prayers from around the world.

Though Al-Waleed remained unconscious, he occasionally showed small signs of responsiveness—like finger movements—which his family shared as hopeful milestones. Many visitors, including prominent figures and relatives, came to pray at his bedside over the years.

Known affectionately as “Dede” to his family, Prince Al-Waleed’s long journey became a symbol of a father’s unwavering hope and love. His funeral was held the following day, on Sunday, July 20.