The ‘Sleeping Prince’ has died after being in a coma for the past 20 years.
Prince Al-Waleed bin Khalid Al-Saud was involved in a tragic car accident in London at the age of 15, while he was studying as a military cadet.
The 36-year-old Saudi royal was nicknamed the Sleeping Prince, while hospitalised at King Abdulaziz Medical City in Riyadh.
Prince Al-Waleed suffered a brain haemorrhage and internal bleeding in the horrific incident and despite receiving urgent medical care, he never regained full consciousness.
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He was kept on a ventilator until his death, confirmed by his father. Prince Khaled bin Talal Al Saud had never given up hope that his eldest son would one day make a full recovery. He had firmly rejected calls to withdraw life support.
Prince Al-Waleed is one of the great grandsons of King Abdulaziz (or Ibn Saud), Saudia Arabia’s founder and first monarch.
The current regnant, King Salman, is his great uncle and he is one of the nephews of billionaire tycoon Al Waheed bin Talal Al Saud.
The father confirmed the news of his death on social media as he quoted a verse from the Quran and wrote: “With hearts believing in Allah’s will and decree, and with deep sorrow and sadness, we mourn our beloved son: Prince Al-Waleed bin Khaled bin Talal bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, may Allah have mercy on him, who passed away today.”
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Back in 2015, doctors had advised Prince Khaled let nature take its course but he denied this and continued to fight for his son’s life.
There were some moments of hope over time as the Sleeping Prince was seen to make minor movements like raising fingers or tilting his head, but unfortunately, his condition never improved.
His father remained close to him and visitors offering prayers and support would often visit his hospital room.
Funeral prayers will be held for Prince Al-Waleed today (20 July) at Imam Turki bin Abdullah Mosque in Riyadh.
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As tributes flood in for the prince, the Global Imams Council shared a statement to social media: “The Global Imams Council extends its sincere condolences and heartfelt sympathy to… His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, and the esteemed Royal Family, on the passing of Prince Alwaleed bin Khaled bin Talal Al Saud, who passed away after a long struggle that lasted nearly twenty years following.
“As we share the grief of the Royal Family on this solemn occasion, we recall with deep respect the patience and steadfastness demonstrated by his father, Prince Khaled bin Talal, and his family a testament to their profound faith in the will and decree of Allah.”
Topics: Royal Family, Saudi Arabia, Health, World News, Parenting, London
Jess Battison