Saudi Arabia Mourns the Loss of Prince Al Waleed bin Khaled
Prince Al Waleed bin Khaled bin Talal Al Saud, poignantly known as the “Sleeping Prince,” has passed away at the age of 36, concluding nearly two decades of unwavering hope and resilience since a devastating accident left him in a coma.
A Tragic Accident That Changed a Life Forever
Born in April 1990, Prince Al Waleed was the eldest son of Prince Khaled bin Talal Al Saud, a prominent member of the Saudi royal family and nephew to billionaire Prince Al Waleed bin Talal. At just 15 years old, while pursuing his studies at a military college in the United Kingdom, the young prince was gravely injured in a serious road accident. The crash inflicted severe brain trauma and internal bleeding that plunged him into a coma.
Two Decades of Vigil and Hope
Following the accident, Prince Al Waleed received extensive medical care from leading specialists in the United States and Spain, yet despite the best efforts, he never regained full consciousness. Subsequently, he was transferred to King Abdulaziz Medical City in Riyadh, where he remained on life support under the watchful care of his family for nearly 20 years.
Throughout these years, Prince Khaled held on to hope against all odds, steadfastly refusing to consider withdrawing life support. Occasional subtle movements from the prince—such as gentle finger twitches—surfaced in rare video recordings, briefly igniting hope for recovery among his family and supporters worldwide.
Official Condolences and Community Response
Prince Khaled announced his son’s passing with a statement that blended sorrow and faith: “With hearts full of faith in Allah’s decree and destiny, and with profound sadness and sorrow, we mourn our beloved son Prince Al-Waleed bin Khaled bin Talal bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, may Allah have mercy on him.”
Reflecting the deep respect and grief felt across the region, the Global Imams Council expressed their condolences to Saudi leadership and the royal family, acknowledging the prince’s long fight following the tragic accident.
Looking Ahead: Funeral Arrangements and Legacy
The prince’s funeral prayers are scheduled for Sunday, July 20, after the Asr prayer at Imam Turki bin Abdullah Mosque in Riyadh, bringing together dignitaries, family members, and well-wishers to honor his memory.
Contextual Insight: The Human Dimension Behind Royal Headlines
While stories about royal families often focus on politics and wealth, Prince Al Waleed’s two-decade-long coma reveals a profoundly human story of heartbreak, hope, and unwavering familial devotion. His father’s determination highlights critical ethical questions about life support and the emotional weight families bear in such circumstances, a conversation that resonates far beyond Saudi Arabia.
In a region where family honor and faith intertwine deeply with daily life, the prince’s journey underscores how even privileged lives confront universal vulnerabilities. This story invites broader reflection on medical care, patient rights, and the spiritual resilience families rely on in prolonged medical crises.
Key Takeaways
- Prince Al Waleed bin Khaled passed away at 36 after 20 years in a coma.
- The prince sustained severe brain injuries in a 2005 car accident in the UK.
- Despite international medical efforts, he never regained consciousness.
- His father’s unwavering dedication kept him on life support until his passing.
- The Saudi and global Muslim communities have extended their condolences.
- His funeral will be held in Riyadh at Imam Turki bin Abdullah Mosque.
Editor’s Note
This poignant story of Prince Al Waleed bin Khaled transcends royal headlines to touch on universal themes: the enduring strength of family, faith in the face of tragedy, and the ethical complexities surrounding long-term life support. As medical technology advances, societies worldwide grapple with similar dilemmas—when to hope and when to let go. The prince’s journey reminds us that behind public figures are deeply personal stories shaped by love, pain, and unyielding commitment.
