Prince Al Waleed bin Khaled bin Talal, widely known as Saudi Arabia’s “Sleeping Prince,” has passed away nearly two decades after falling into a coma from a devastating car accident in 2005.
The prince, a nephew of billionaire investor Prince Alwaleed bin Talal, had remained on life support for 19 years, becoming a powerful symbol of perseverance and faith across the Arab world. His condition was closely followed by millions who held onto hope for a miracle, especially after a viral video five years ago appeared to show him slightly moving his fingers a moment many interpreted as a sign of possible recovery.
The royal family announced his death in a statement on Saturday via X (formerly Twitter), expressing “profound sadness and sorrow.” His funeral is scheduled to take place in Riyadh on Sunday.
Over the years, Prince Al Waleed’s journey stirred widespread emotion. Photos and updates shared by family members often showed him surrounded by medical equipment, draped in the Saudi flag, with one notable image bearing the words, “Our Country is in Our Hearts.”
His passing marks the end of a nearly 20-year vigil that captured the hearts of many, drawing tributes from both citizens and dignitaries who admired the family’s enduring hope and love.
