Known worldwide as the “Sleeping Prince,” a Saudi royal has died at the age of 36 after spending two decades in a coma – his life interrupted since a tragic car accident at the young age of 15.
Born in April 1990, Prince Al-Waleed bin Khaled bin Talal Al Saud – affectionately called “Dede” by his family, as reported by People – was only 15 years old when his life was forever changed.
In 2005, while he was studying military education in London, the young royal was involved in a devastating car accident that caused severe brain injuries and significant internal bleeding, according to the Mirror.
Following the accident, the young prince was transported back to Saudi Arabia and admitted to King Abdulaziz Medical City in Riyadh, where he remained in a deep coma for over 20 years – silent, immobile, and suspended between life and death.
Nevertheless, throughout that silence, a father’s love remained steadfast.
Silent vigil
Since the moment of the tragic incident that rendered the young prince in a vegetative state, his father, Prince Khaled bin Talal Al Saud – a distinguished member of the Saudi royal family and nephew of billionaire investor Prince Al Waleed bin Talal – has steadfastly refused to relinquish hope.
During every Eid, every Ramadan, and every Saudi National Day, Prince Khaled transformed his son’s hospital room into a haven of celebration and faith. The sterile environment was adorned with colorful lights, family photographs, and handwritten prayers, evolving into a testament of resilience and love.
“I am pleased to inform you that [his] health condition is stable, and [he is] currently in intensive care,” he tweeted on April 10, 2024 – a post that went viral and included a short video of his son, the Sleeping Prince, lying unconscious in his bed, with the room festively decorated for the holiday Eid.
Over the years, countless visitors have come to the hospital, offering prayers and silent support, transforming the prince’s bedside into a revered gathering place.
This scene has recurred for two decades: a father keeping vigil, a nation observing quietly, and the world holding its breath.
Final goodbye
On Saturday, July 19, 2025, the prolonged vigil finally concluded.
The sorrowful father conveyed the devastating news on X, sharing a monochrome photograph of his son resting serenely in a hospital bed, his eyes shut, utterly still.
“With hearts filled with faith in Allah’s decree and destiny, and with deep sadness and grief, we mourn our cherished son Prince Al-Waleed bin Khaled bin Talal bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, may Allah have mercy on him, who has returned to Allah’s mercy today,” he expressed in Arabic, announcing the passing of his eldest son.
A prayer service took place the following day in Saudi Arabia, attended by members of the royal family, close friends, and mourning citizens who came to pay their last respects.
The young prince represented more than just a prince in a coma – he became a symbol of the profound connection between parent and child.
Rest in peace, Prince Al Waleed. We invite you to express your condolences to the family in the comment section below and share this story so we can gather thoughts from others!