Post by : Mariam
Al-Faris
Photo: X
Prince Al-Waleed bin Khalid bin Talal Al Saud, also known by many as the ‘Sleeping Prince’ of Saudi Arabia, has passed away at the age of 36. His death came after he spent 20 long years in a coma. The prince fell into this state following a terrible car accident in 2005. His story had touched the hearts of many people across Saudi Arabia and beyond.
The Heartbreaking Confirmation from His Father
The sad news of Prince Al-Waleed’s passing was confirmed by his father, Prince Khaled bin Talal bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. He announced the news in an emotional post on social media platform X, which was earlier known as Twitter. In his message, Prince Khaled quoted a verse from the Quran and expressed his deep sorrow. He said they accept Allah’s will and mourn the loss of their beloved son with great sadness.
The Accident That Changed His Life Forever
Back in 2005, when Prince Al-Waleed was a young student at a military academy in London, he was involved in a severe car accident. The crash caused him serious injuries, including a brain hemorrhage. He underwent surgery, but sadly, the operation left him in a coma. Since then, he remained unresponsive and dependent on life support for the next 20 years.
A Life Spent in Hope and Prayer
Over the two decades that Prince Al-Waleed was in a coma, his family never gave up hope. His father, Prince Khaled, was especially strong in his faith and belief that his son might one day recover. He refused to remove life support and continued to pray for a miracle. During every important Islamic event, Prince Khaled would visit his son, pray by his bedside, and share updates with the public through social media.
The Most Recent Visit Before His Death
Even in June 2025, during the Eid al-Adha celebrations, Prince Khaled visited his son along with his other children. They stood beside Prince Al-Waleed’s bed and offered special prayers, hoping once again for his recovery. This visit, shared on social media, showed the world the deep love and care the family had for the prince despite his long illness.
Medical Care at King Abdulaziz Medical City
After the accident in 2005, Prince Al-Waleed was brought back to Saudi Arabia. He was admitted to King Abdulaziz Medical City in Riyadh, where he remained on a ventilator. The family arranged for top medical experts from different parts of the world to care for him. These experts worked hard to try and revive him. Occasionally, small movements gave the family hope, but sadly, his condition did not improve over the years.
Small Signs of Hope Over the Years
There were moments when Prince Al-Waleed seemed to show signs of response. Sometimes he moved a finger or opened his eyes slightly. These rare moments were seen as signs of hope by his family and many well-wishers. However, despite all the prayers, medical efforts, and global attention, Prince Al-Waleed never fully recovered.
Funeral Plans for the ‘Sleeping Prince’
The funeral prayers for Prince Al-Waleed were announced to be held on Sunday, July 20. For men, the prayer will take place after Asr prayer at Imam Turki bin Abdullah Mosque in Riyadh. For women, the funeral prayer will be held after Dhuhr prayer at King Faisal Specialist Hospital. These arrangements were shared to allow family, friends, and members of the public to join in paying their final respects.
Arrangements for Offering Condolences
The royal family also announced that they would receive condolences from July 20 to July 22. Men who wish to offer their condolences can do so at the palace of Prince Alwaleed bin Talal in the Al-Fakhriyah district of Riyadh. Women can visit the palace to express their sympathies after the Maghrib prayer on the same days. This period of condolence gives people a chance to support the grieving family.
The Father’s Unwavering Love and Faith
Prince Khaled bin Talal’s hope and love for his son became a symbol of faith and patience for many people. Throughout the 20 years, he continued to believe in Allah’s mercy and prayed for his son’s recovery. His constant care, public messages, and prayers showed the world a father’s deep love and unshakable faith. His hope became a story of strength and endurance in the face of life’s hardest challenges.
A Story That Touched Millions Around the World
The story of Prince Al-Waleed bin Khalid, the ‘Sleeping Prince,’ was known far beyond Saudi Arabia. His story of a young life halted by a tragic accident, his family’s hope, and their refusal to give up touched the hearts of millions. People from around the world prayed for him and followed updates shared by his father. His story became a reminder of the value of life, hope, and faith.
A Sad Goodbye After Years of Struggle
Now, after 20 long years of being in a coma, Prince Al-Waleed has finally passed away. His death marks the end of a long and painful chapter for his family. It also brings a sense of closure to a story that many had followed with hope and prayers. His memory will remain in the hearts of those who knew him and those who were moved by his story.
Remembering the ‘Sleeping Prince’
The passing of Prince Al-Waleed bin Khalid bin Talal Al Saud has brought deep sorrow to his family, friends, and countless well-wishers around the world. His life — marked by a tragic accident, years in a coma, and a family’s endless love and hope — has left a lasting impact. As the people of Saudi Arabia and many others mourn his death, they also remember the lessons of patience, faith, and love that his story taught. The ‘Sleeping Prince’ may now rest in peace, but his story will continue to inspire.
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