RIYADH — Saudi Arabia is in mourning following the death of Prince Alwaleed bin Khaled bin Talal, the young royal famously known as “The Sleeping Prince,” who passed away after spending nearly 19 years in a coma. The announcement was made on Saturday by his father, Prince Khaled bin Talal, ending a decades-long chapter marked by hope, faith, and national empathy.
The funeral prayers will be held on Sunday at the Imam Turki bin Abdullah Mosque in Riyadh, following the Asr prayer, Prince Khaled confirmed in a public statement.
A Tragic Turning Point
Prince Alwaleed bin Khaled fell into a coma in 2005 after suffering a severe traumatic brain injury in a car accident in London while pursuing his university studies. The incident left the young royal entirely unresponsive and under round-the-clock medical care.
Despite his condition, which showed virtually no signs of consciousness, occasional flickers of movement over the years brought hope to his family and followers across the Kingdom. Videos showing him moving a hand or blinking eyes would often go viral, stirring conversations and prayers from supporters around the world.
A Father’s Unwavering Faith
Throughout the years, Prince Khaled bin Talal remained steadfast in his belief that life and death are decreed by God alone. Despite calls from some quarters to consider withdrawing life support, the prince stood firm in his conviction that every breath his son took was by divine will.
He frequently shared images and videos of his son’s condition, expressing spiritual strength, while inviting the public to join him in prayer and hope.
“Only God gives life and takes it,” Prince Khaled once said. “As long as his heart beats, we will not give up.”
National and Global Sympathy
Prince Alwaleed’s case became a symbol of resilience, faith, and hope within Saudi Arabia and beyond. The story of The Sleeping Prince captured the hearts of millions who prayed and empathized with the family’s emotional and spiritual journey.
Candlelight vigils, mosque prayers, and online tributes have marked key anniversaries of his coma, making him one of the most followed figures in the Kingdom without ever speaking a word during his condition.
Final Moments and Funeral Arrangements
According to family sources, Prince Alwaleed passed away peacefully under medical supervision. His death brings closure to a story that deeply moved a generation and became a moral discussion around life support, faith, and perseverance.
The royal family has requested privacy during this time of mourning but has also welcomed condolences from the public, dignitaries, and global leaders.
His burial is expected to draw thousands of mourners to Imam Turki bin Abdullah Mosque, a symbolic and historical site in Riyadh for royal funerals and prayers.
Legacy of a Silent Symbol
While Prince Alwaleed bin Khaled never regained his voice or physical autonomy, his story echoed across hospitals, homes, and places of worship, leaving behind a legacy of unseen strength, faith-driven hope, and royal compassion.
His passing marks the end of an extraordinary ordeal but begins a chapter of reflection and national remembrance.
