Prince Alwaleed, son of Prince Khaled bin Talal, passed away at age 36, nearly two decades after a life-altering car crash in London.
📰 Who Was Prince Alwaleed bin Khaled?
Prince Alwaleed bin Khaled bin Talal Al Saud, often known as “The Sleeping Prince,” died on Saturday, July 20, 2025, at the age of 36. He had been in a coma for nearly 20 years following a devastating car accident in London in 2005.
Born in April 1990, he was the eldest son of Prince Khaled bin Talal Al Saud and the nephew of billionaire businessman Prince Alwaleed bin Talal.
🚑 The 2005 London Car Crash
At the time of the accident, Prince Alwaleed was just 15 years old and studying at a military college in the UK. The crash caused severe brain injuries and internal bleeding, leaving him in a persistent coma from which he never fully recovered.
He was transferred to King Abdulaziz Medical City in Riyadh, where he remained on life support for nearly two decades under round-the-clock medical care.
💤 Why He Was Called ‘The Sleeping Prince’
Despite being in a coma, rare videos over the years showed minor movements, such as the lifting of a finger, sparking brief moments of hope among supporters and followers. These glimpses of responsiveness earned him the moniker “The Sleeping Prince” across social media and in public discourse.
🗣️ Family’s Emotional Tribute
His father, Prince Khaled bin Talal, remained steadfast in his faith and refused to withdraw life support, stating:
“Only Allah decides the moment of death.”
In a heartfelt message, Prince Khaled said:
“With profound sadness and sorrow, we mourn our beloved son… may Allah have mercy on him.”
The Global Imams Council also extended condolences to Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and the Saudi Royal Family, acknowledging the Prince’s long struggle and the family’s unwavering strength.
🕌 Funeral Details
The funeral prayers for Prince Alwaleed bin Khaled will be held on Sunday, July 20, after Asr prayer at the Imam Turki bin Abdullah Mosque in Riyadh.
