Saudi Arabia Mourns ‘Sleeping Prince’ Alwaleed bin Khaled After 20 Years in Coma
Prince Alwaleed bin Khaled bin Talal bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, often referred to as Saudi Arabia’s ‘Sleeping Prince’, has passed away at the age of 36 after spending nearly two decades in a coma following a tragic car accident in London in 2005. His death was confirmed by his father, Prince Khaled bin Talal bin Abdulaziz, who expressed deep sorrow and faith in divine destiny.
The Tragic Accident That Changed a Life
At just 15 years old, Prince Alwaleed's promising life was abruptly altered when he was involved in a devastating car crash while studying at a military college in London. The accident caused severe brain injuries and internal bleeding, leaving him in a coma that lasted over 19 years.
Despite extensive medical care provided by specialists from the United States and Spain, and continuous life support at King Abdulaziz Medical City in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Prince Alwaleed never fully regained consciousness. Occasional minor movements, such as finger lifts captured in 2020 social media clips, gave his family fleeting moments of hope but no substantial recovery.
A Father’s Unwavering Devotion and Cultural Reflections
Prince Khaled bin Talal remained by his son’s side throughout these two decades, steadfastly opposing the withdrawal of life support. This steadfastness reflects the deep-rooted values within Saudi and broader Middle Eastern cultures concerning family loyalty, respect for life, and faith in God’s plan.
Born in April 1990, Prince Alwaleed was the eldest son of Prince Khaled, himself a prominent royal and nephew to billionaire Prince Alwaleed bin Talal. The young prince’s prolonged coma and passing highlight profound challenges faced by families dealing with long-term critical care, especially regarding ethical decisions about life support—a topic that resonates globally.
Funeral and Legacy
Funeral prayers are scheduled for Sunday, July 20, following the Asr prayer at the Imam Turki bin Abdullah Mosque in Riyadh, marking a somber moment for the Saudi royal family and the wider community.
Contextual Insight: The Broader Implications
- Medical and Ethical Dimensions: Prince Alwaleed’s case underscores complexities around prolonged coma care, medical ethics, and families’ roles in decision-making.
- Cultural Perspectives: The royal family’s approach embodies values of hope, patience, and reverence for life—even in medically and emotionally taxing conditions.
- Public Curiosity and Privacy: High-profile cases like this often intertwine public interest with a family’s right to privacy, a delicate balance especially for prominent figures.
Expert Commentary
Medical ethicists observe that cases such as Prince Alwaleed’s challenge existing frameworks for care. Dr. Amal Farouk, a neurocritical care specialist, explains, “Long-term coma patients present unique challenges for families and healthcare providers alike, particularly in cultures where spiritual beliefs deeply influence medical decisions.”
Editor’s Note
The passing of Prince Alwaleed bin Khaled invites reflection on the intersection of medicine, culture, and faith in life-altering conditions. It raises poignant questions about how societies support families facing prolonged critical illness and how public figures navigate private tragedies. As we honor his memory, there is a broader conversation to be had about compassion, medical ethics, and the enduring strength of familial love.
