Prince Al-Waleed bin Khalid Al-Saud: ‘Sleeping prince’ dies after 20 years in coma

A prince who had been in a coma for over two decades following a horrific car crash has died.

Prince Al-Waleed bin Khalid Al-Saud, 36, suffered a brain haemorrhage and internal bleeding following the devastating 2005 crash.

He became known as the “sleeping prince” because he was kept on a ventilator in the hospital, but never woke from his coma.

The Royal Court of Saudi Arabia confirmed his death on Friday through the Saudi Press agency.

The prince was the eldest son of Prince Khaled bin Talal Al Saud and had been studying at a military college in London before the car crash.

He was hospitalised in King Abdulaziz Medical City in Saudi Arabia’s capital Riyadh, and remained there in critical condition and on life support for 20 years.

His father always remained hopeful that one day he would wake up and return to his normal life. Over the years, he continued to reject calls to end the prince’s life support.

The Daily Mail reported that videos shared to social media showed the prince lifting his fingers, even raising his whole hand off the bed momentarily.

The phrase “sleeping prince” trended on social media repeatedly over the years.

His father made the tragic announcement of his death on X and said “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, who passed away to Allah’s mercy today”.

The news of Prince Al-Waleed’s death has been met with an outpouring of condolences from people on social media.

One Facebook user wrote “his family’s unwavering love and dedication were truly inspiring”.

“The prince’s story captivated many, symbolising parental devotion, patience and faith,” another wrote.

His funeral was held on Sunday and condolence gatherings also scheduled for Monday and Tuesday.