Prince Al Waleed bin Khaled bin Talal, the Saudi royal known around the world as the “Sleeping Prince,” has died, nearly 20 years after a devastating car accident left him in a coma.
Born into the prominent House of Saud, Prince Al Waleed was the son of Prince Khaled bin Talal and the nephew of billionaire philanthropist Prince Alwaleed bin Talal. Bright, active, and full of promise, the young prince’s life took a tragic turn in 2005 when he suffered severe head injuries in a traffic accident while studying at a military college in London.
Since then, he had been in a persistent coma, watched over by his devoted family. Videos shared by his relatives over the years showed his slight physical reactions—blinks, finger twitches—sparking hope and deep emotional support across the Arab world. Many regarded him as a living testimony of patience, prayer, and unwavering belief in God’s mercy.
His long battle finally came to an end on Saturday, his family confirmed. He was 36 years old. His funeral is scheduled to be held in Riyadh on Sunday.
Prince Al Waleed’s story captured the hearts of millions, not just as a tale of tragedy, but as a testament to a family’s enduring love and faith through unimaginable circumstances.
