On 3 December, the couple will welcome Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Emir of Qatar, and his first wife, Sheikha Jawan bint Hamad bin Suhaim Al Thani, at Kensington Palace. The event marks part of the monarch's state visit to the UK. The royal couple will take part in a carriage procession to Horse Guards Parade, where the monarch will be greeted by a ceremonial procession before meeting King Charles III and Queen Camilla.

While Princess Catherine will take part in many of the daytime activities associated with the visit, she will not attend the accompanying state reception at Buckingham Palace that evening. The absence of a state reception means royal watchers will miss out on seeing Duchess Catherine wearing a tiara this year.

Such engagements are one of the rare occasions when members of the royal family wear formal white tie outfits, complete with tiara. She was also notably absent from this year's diplomatic reception at Buckingham Palace, where Prince William appeared alone alongside King Charles and Queen Camilla.

At the recent reception, Queen Camilla wowed guests in a blue velvet gown designed by Fiona Clare, accessorised with a small aquamarine and diamond tiara that belonged to the late Queen Elizabeth II. Since joining the royal family in 2011, Princess Catherine has adorned herself with four separate tiaras from the royal jewellery collection, including the Cartier Halo, Lotus Flower, Lovers Knot and Strathmore Rose tiaras.

As Princess Catherine continues her recovery, her participation in royal engagements reflects her commitment to her duties. Her upcoming appearance alongside Prince William promises to be a significant moment in their royal engagements, reflecting the royal family’s long-standing role in foreign affairs.