Saudi Arabia’s ‘Sleeping Prince’ turns 36 after nearly 20 years in coma

Prince Al-Waleed bin Khaled bin Talal, known around the world as Saudi Arabia’s ‘Sleeping Prince,’ marked his 36th birthday on April 18, 2025, while still in a coma nearly two decades after a devastating car accident.

The prince was just a student at a military college in London in 2005 when a tragic car crash caused a severe brain haemorrhage, leaving him in a non-responsive state. Since then, he has remained on life support at King Abdulaziz Medical City in Riyadh.

Despite numerous medical recommendations to discontinue life support, his father, Prince Khaled bin Talal, has firmly resisted, holding on to the belief that his son may still recover.

“If God had wanted him to die in the accident, he would have been in his grave now,” Prince Khaled once said, underscoring his unwavering faith and devotion.

Over the years, Prince Al-Waleed has exhibited occasional, faint signs of responsiveness, such as slight finger movements or head shifts, though these gestures have not progressed into full consciousness. Nevertheless, his father has stayed loyally by his side, offering constant care and silent hope.

This year, Prince Al-Waleed’s birthday sparked an outpouring of support across social media. Well-wishers from around the world sent prayers and shared throwback photos of the prince with his family.

Princess Rima bint Talal, a close relative, posted a touching message on X, formerly Twitter, writing, “My beloved Al-Waleed, twenty-one years and you are always present in our hearts. O Allah, heal Your servant Al-Waleed.”

Prince Al-Waleed, a great-grandson of Saudi Arabia’s founder King Abdulaziz, has become a symbol of resilience, patience, and hope for his family and admirers across the globe. Although doctors view a full recovery as unlikely after such a long time in a coma, hope remains that future medical breakthroughs could someday offer a miracle.