She will join King Charles and Prince William in welcoming the Emir of Qatar, His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and his wife Sheikha Jauhrah bint Hamad Al Thani, on an honourary visit to the UK. Buckingham Palace has announced that Queen Camilla will be absent for part of the event due to the lingering effects of her illness following her return from a royal tour of the South Pacific last October. The visit is historic as it is the first state visit to Buckingham Palace in three years.

The event is one of the most important on the royal calendar, highlighting the strengthening of diplomatic ties between the UK and Qatar. The King and his delegation were welcomed to Stansted Airport with full ceremony. The visit included a grand reception at Horse Guards Parade and a carriage ride to Buckingham Palace, reflecting the monarchy's longstanding role in representing British culture and diplomacy.

This will be Princess Catherine's first major public event since revealing her health earlier this year. Over the past eleven months, she has prioritised her health and family by stepping back from public life. However, her participation in this State Visit marks a new phase in her royal duties. Throughout the day, the Princess will take part in a number of high-profile engagements, including an official welcome for the King and his wife, a ceremonial procession and a private lunch at Buckingham Palace.

She will also attend a special exhibition of Qatari artifacts from the Royal Collection, highlighting her dedication to cultural diplomacy. While she will not attend the evening State Reception, her participation in the day’s events marks her gradual re-engagement with royal duties. Her absence reflects her intention to balance her recovery with her role as a senior royal.

The visit is the first by a Middle Eastern leader since King Charles ascended the throne, underscoring the strong ties between the two countries. Qatar’s senior diplomats have expressed their gratitude, saying they are honoured by the recognition, which reinforces their existing partnership. The Amir will be accompanied by his first wife, Sheikha Jauhrah bint Hamad Al Thani, who is also his second cousin and the mother of four of the Amir’s 13 children. Sheikha Jauhrah is a prominent figure on the international stage, regularly representing Qatar on official visits with her husband.

The Amir has two other wives, reflecting the family’s rich cultural heritage and traditions. This State visit promises to showcase the Royal tradition and international diplomacy. Royal enthusiasts and admirers around the world are celebrating Princess Catherine’s return to the Royal spotlight. Her participation in such a prestigious event shows that she is recovering and is determined to continue her role in the Royal Family.