Introduction: A Royal Mystery
The recent passing of Prince Al-Waleed bin Khalid bin Talal Al Saud, known as the “Sleeping Prince,” has brought renewed attention to one of Saudi Arabia’s most enigmatic royal stories. The prince, who spent an astonishing 20 years in a coma, died at age 42, closing a tragic chapter that had long fascinated both medical experts and royal watchers.
His case remains unique in modern medical history—a young, healthy royal suddenly falling into an irreversible coma, with the full resources of the Saudi monarchy devoted to keeping him alive for two decades. This article explores his life, the mystery surrounding his condition, and the ethical questions his case raises.
Who Was Prince Al-Waleed?
Prince Al-Waleed was a grandson of King Talal, a prominent branch of the Saudi royal family. Born in 1983, he grew up in luxury but was not directly involved in politics. Unlike his more famous relatives, such as billionaire Prince Al-Waleed bin Talal (his uncle), he maintained a relatively low profile before his medical crisis.
Those who knew him described him as intelligent, athletic, and ambitious. He studied abroad and was expected to take on a role in Saudi business or diplomacy—until tragedy struck.
The Mysterious Incident: What Caused the Coma?
In 2005, at just 22 years old, Prince Al-Waleed was found unconscious in his palace. The exact cause was never officially confirmed, leading to widespread speculation:
1. Medical Crisis
Some reports suggested a sudden stroke or brain aneurysm, possibly linked to an undiagnosed condition.
2. Possible Foul Play
Given the Saudi royal family’s history of internal rivalries, rumors swirled about poisoning or an assassination attempt. However, no evidence was ever presented.
3. Accident or Trauma
A few sources claimed he had suffered a severe fall or car crash, but these reports were never verified.
The Saudi government imposed strict secrecy on his medical records, fueling conspiracy theories.
Life in a Coma: The World’s Most Expensive Medical Care
For 20 years, Prince Al-Waleed was kept alive in a private medical suite in Riyadh, staffed by a rotating team of neurologists and critical care specialists.
How Was He Treated?
24/7 monitoring with advanced life-support machines
Experimental therapies, including stem cell treatments (though none succeeded)
No public updates—his condition remained a tightly guarded secret
Why Keep Him Alive So Long?
Religious beliefs: In Islam, life is sacred, and euthanasia is forbidden.
Royal protocol: Saudi royals receive the best possible care, regardless of cost.
Family refusal: His parents reportedly rejected any suggestion of withdrawing treatment, hoping for a miracle.
Global Reaction: Ethical Debates
The prince’s case sparked international discussions on:
✔ Medical ethics: Should indefinite life support be used for vegetative patients?
✔ Cost of care: Estimates suggest his treatment cost over $100 million.
✔ Transparency: Why did the Saudi government never release details?
Some experts argued that his prolonged coma was more about royal prestige than medical hope.
His Death and Legacy
Prince Al-Waleed passed away quietly in 2024, with a private royal funeral. His story leaves behind:
A medical mystery—What really caused his coma?
A symbol of Saudi wealth and secrecy—No other country could (or would) sustain such care for decades.
A debate on modern medicine’s limits—When does life support become futile?
Conclusion: The Sleeping Prince’s Unanswered Questions
The “Sleeping Prince” remains one of Saudi Arabia’s most haunting royal tales. His 20-year coma—and the resources devoted to sustaining it—reflect the intersection of medicine, wealth, and power in the kingdom.
While his death ends his suffering, the full truth may never emerge. Was his coma natural? Was there foul play? And was keeping him alive for 20 years an act of devotion or denial?
What do you think? Should patients in irreversible comas be kept alive indefinitely?