Prince Alwaleed bin Khalid bin Talal bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, widely known as Saudi Arabia’s “Sleeping Prince,” passed away on Saturday, July 19, after nearly two decades in a coma. The Royal Court confirmed the news through the Saudi Press Agency.
Funeral prayers for the late prince will be held on Sunday, July 20, following the Asr prayer at Imam Turki bin Abdullah Mosque in Riyadh.
Prince Alwaleed had remained in a coma since 2005, when he sustained a traumatic brain injury in a car accident while studying at a military college in London. The injury resulted in a brain hemorrhage, and he was treated at King Abdulaziz Medical City in Riyadh for the remainder of his life.
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Despite numerous medical suggestions to withdraw life support, his father, Prince Khaled bin Talal, resolutely refused, expressing unwavering faith in divine will. “If God had wanted him to die in the accident, he would have been in his grave now,” he once stated, maintaining hope that his son would one day awaken.
Over the years, Prince Alwaleed showed minor signs of physical movement, such as slight finger or head motions. However, these were not signs of full consciousness. His condition continued to capture the sympathy and attention of people across Saudi Arabia and the broader region.
The prince’s passing marks the end of a nearly 19-year-long medical struggle, a story that touched millions and symbolized enduring parental devotion and faith.
