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Saudi Al-Waleed bin Khaled Remains in A Deep Coma Since 2005. Family Refuses to Disconnect Devices and Case Goes Viral on Social Media
One of the most touching stories of the Saudi royalty gained attention again in April 2025. Al-Waleed bin Khaled bin Talal, known as the “Sleeping Prince”, turned 36 years old and remains ina deep coma since 2005, after a severe car accident in London. Twenty years later, the family maintains hope for recovery, even in the face of irreversible medical prognosis, according to the Terra website.
Accident in 2005 Changed the Fate of the Saudi Prince
At the time of the accident, Al-Waleed was only 16 years old and was studying at a British military school. The impact of the crash caused a severe and irreversible brain injury, according to doctors. Since then, he has been hospitalized at King Abdulaziz Medical City in Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, on mechanical ventilation and tube feeding.
Despite his clinical condition being considered permanent, in 2019 the prince reportedly moved his head and a finger, a gesture that the family interpreted as a sign of awareness.
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Family Ignores Medical Recommendation and Maintains Vital Support
Even after two decades in a coma, Al-Waleed’s relatives refuse any suggestion to disconnect the devices. His father, Khaled bin Talal—well known for his conservative stance within the monarchy—states that his decision is sustained by faith.
“If God wanted him to die in the accident, he would be in his grave now”, he declared.
The statement went viral again on social media in April, reigniting the debate on medical ethics, faith, and the role of science in irreversible cases.
Who Is the Sleeping Prince? Understand the Line of Succession
Although he is not among the direct heirs to the throne, Al-Waleed belongs to one of the most influential families in Saudi Arabia:
- Grandson of Prince Talal bin Abdulaziz, son of the founding king Abdulaziz
- Great-nephew of the current king Salman bin Abdulaziz
- Son of Khaled bin Talal, an active member of the conservative wing of the monarchy
