Saudi Arabia’s ‘Sleeping Prince’ dies after 20 years in coma

Prince Al-Waleed bin Khaled bin Talal Al Saud, widely known as Saudi Arabia’s “Sleeping Prince,” has died after spending two decades in a coma caused by a tragic car accident in 2005.

The announcement of his death was made by Prince Khaled bin Talal, his father, on Saturday, July 19. His funeral is scheduled to take place on Sunday, July 20, at Imam Turki bin Abdullah Mosque in Riyadh, following Asr prayer.

Prince Al-Waleed was the eldest son of Prince Khaled bin Talal Al Saud, a prominent Saudi royal and nephew of billionaire Prince Al-Waleed bin Talal.

At just 15, while studying as a military cadet in London, he suffered a devastating road accident in 2005 that caused severe brain injuries and internal bleeding.

On April 18, 2025, the Sleeping Prince turned 36, marking nearly two decades since he slipped into a coma following a tragic car accident in the United Kingdom.

The prince had been in a coma since being admitted to the hospital following the accident in London in 2005.

For over 20 years, Prince Al-Waleed remained in a largely unresponsive coma, though occasional involuntary movements offered hope. His father, Prince Khaled, publicly rejected suggestions to withdraw life support, holding firm in his belief in divine healing.

The family shared videos showing the prince responding slightly to Quran recitations, which captivated the public’s empathy and admiration.

Prince Al-Waleed’s condition touched the hearts of millions over the years, with widespread public sympathy and prayers for his recovery. News of his passing marks the end of a long and emotional journey that resonated deeply within the Kingdom.