Prince Al-Waleed bin Khalid bin Talal Al Saud, known across the Arab world as “The Sleeping Prince,” has passed away at the age of 36 after spending two decades in a coma.

The Saudi royal, who was only 15 when a devastating car accident left him unconscious, had been under continuous medical care since the 2005 incident.

His death was confirmed by family and Saudi state media on Saturday, drawing widespread condolences and remembrance for his long battle for life.

The Long Ordeal of the Sleeping Prince Ends

The prince, a member of the House of Saud, was studying at a military college in the United Kingdom when the accident occurred. A resulting brain hemorrhage left him in a coma from which he never awoke. 

Despite his critical condition, Prince Al-Waleed was closely monitored and occasionally showed limited physical responses. According to the Saudi Gazette, he had “brief episodes of limited movement” over the years.

The emotional story of “The Sleeping Prince” captivated audiences across the globe. Social media and traditional outlets frequently revisited updates about his condition, often dispelling false reports of his death or miraculous awakenings.

Read more via Gulf Today, MSN, and New York Post.

Funeral and National Mourning

The funeral prayer for the late prince was held on Sunday in Riyadh. Services are expected to continue through Tuesday, according to reports carried by the Saudi Press Agency (SPA).

The Global Imams Council, a major Iraq-based religious NGO, issued a heartfelt condolence statement. “We recall with deep respect the patience and steadfastness demonstrated by his father, Prince Khaled bin Talal, and his family,” the organization said.

“We pray the Almighty Allah envelops the late Prince with His vast mercy, grants him a place in His eternal Paradise, and bestows patience and solace upon his family and loved ones,” the statement added.

Royal Family Statements

Prince Al-Waleed was the son of Prince Khaled bin Talal Al Saud and a nephew of both Saudi billionaire Prince Al-Waleed bin Talal and Princess Rima bin Talal. His father confirmed the passing with a message on social media:

“With hearts full of faith in Allah’s decree and destiny, and with profound sadness and sorrow, we mourn our beloved son... may Allah have mercy on him, who passed away to Allah’s mercy today.”

A Symbol of Faith 

For many in the Middle East and beyond, “The Sleeping Prince” came to symbolize enduring hope, resilience, and the strength of familial faith. The tireless care provided by his family was widely seen as a testament to the royal family's devotion and Islamic perseverance.

While Prince Al-Waleed never regained consciousness, his legacy continues as one of the most emotional stories to emerge from the Saudi royal family in recent decades.