Saudi Arabia's 'Sleeping Prince' Al-Waleed bin Khaled Passes Away After 20-Year Coma
The "Sleeping Prince" of Saudi Arabia, Al-Waleed bin Khaled, passed away on July 19th at the age of 36 after spending nearly 20 years in a coma due to a tragic car accident. Al-Waleed, the son of Prince Khalid bin Talal and nephew of billionaire Al-Waleed bin Talal, had been in a vegetative state since the accident in 2005 when he was just 15 years old.

21 July 2025
The news of his death has elicited a wide range of public reactions and discussions on social media. Many users expressed deep sympathy and sadness, particularly highlighting the devotion of his father who maintained life support for two decades despite medical advice to the contrary. Comments such as "Pity the hearts of parents" and "Though short, it was full of love" reflect the outpouring of emotion.
The astonishing financial cost of maintaining Al-Waleed in his comatose state for so long also fueled discussions about Saudi Arabia's immense wealth. Users marveled at the resources required, with some expressing a tinge of envy at the "immense wealth" involved in supporting a comatose individual for two decades.

Additionally, the nature of Al-Waleed's prolonged coma sparked contemplation about his level of consciousness and potential suffering over the years. Some commenters suggested that his passing might be a form of liberation after being "trapped in a body for 20 years." Others drew comparisons to public figures like Michael Schumacher, questioning the limits of medical intervention and the reality of recovery for those in long-term vegetative states.
While Al-Waleed's death does not have direct significant implications for Saudi Arabia's political landscape due to his lack of involvement in politics during his coma, it has shed light on societal and humanitarian aspects within the kingdom. The public outpouring of grief and sympathy underscores the respect for the familial bond and perseverance demonstrated by Al-Waleed's family.
From a political perspective, although there is no direct impact, the event has drawn attention to the dynamics within the Saudi royal family. Previous rumors of power struggles within the palace, though unrelated to Al-Waleed's case, highlight the complex and sensitive nature of the kingdom's succession and internal power structure.
In essence, the passing of the "Sleeping Prince" is a story of life, love, and resilience that has resonated widely in the social media era. It has provided a poignant moment for reflection on the fragility of life and the enduring power of familial love in the face of tragedy.
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