Saudi Arabia’s ‘sleeping prince’ turns 36 after 20 years in coma

Saudi Arabia Prince, Al-Waleed bin Khaled bin Talal, remains motionless, yet deeply loved, as he turns 36 on April 18, 2025, in Riyadh.

Known globally as the ‘Sleeping Prince,’ Al-Waleed has been in a coma since a tragic accident in 2005.

At just 16, he was a promising military college student with his future ahead of him.

But a road accident left him with a severe head injury, altering his life forever.

Since then, his story has moved millions across Saudi Arabia and beyond.

His condition hasn’t changed, but his father’s hope remains unwavering.

Doctors advised the family to consider ending life support years ago.

But Prince Khaled bin Talal, his father, stood firm in faith and conviction.

“If God wanted him gone, he’d be in his grave,” the prince’s father once said with conviction.

For 20 years, Prince Al-Waleed has been kept alive by machines at King Abdulaziz Medical City.

His room has seen prayers, tears, and endless hours of silent vigil.

Despite medical science offering little hope, his family clings to belief in a miracle.

They share occasional videos of him slightly moving, sparking waves of public emotion.

Supporters post messages of encouragement on social media every year on his birthday.

Prince Al-Waleed is the great-grandson of King Abdulaziz, the founder of modern Saudi Arabia.

He is also the grandson of the late Prince Talal bin Abdulaziz, a notable royal reformist.

Though not directly linked to the current King Salman, the ‘Sleeping Prince’ remains a symbol of loyalty.

His father, Prince Khaled, has always valued faith over finality.

The royal family has respected the decision, offering silent support throughout these years.

In a nation where royal news rarely lingers in public space, Al-Waleed’s story still resonates.

His case has opened quiet debates about long-term care and medical ethics in the region.

Doctors say recovery after two decades in coma is extremely rare, nearly impossible.

Yet the family believes a higher power has a plan that science cannot explain.

Today, as Prince Al-Waleed turns 36, candles are lit, prayers are whispered, and hope endures.

He may not hear the birthday wishes, but his presence still stirs strong emotions.

His story is no longer just medical—it’s spiritual, emotional, and powerfully human.

For many, his condition reflects the tension between science and spirituality.

It reminds people of medicine’s limits and faith’s endurance.

Prince Al-Waleed’s 36th birthday is not just a date, it’s a milestone of human endurance.

His story continues to inspire compassion, reflection, and the enduring strength of love.

For his family, hope still lives. For the world, the Sleeping Prince remains a symbol of resilience.

In Saudi Arabia’s silent palace room, time stands still—but love refuses to fade.

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