Prince William greets the Emir of Qatar at Kensington Palace, while Princess Kate steps back from evening duties following her health recovery.
On Tuesday, Prince William hosted a special event at Kensington Palace during a significant state visit, while Princess Kate took a step back from evening engagements. The Prince and Princess of Wales had earlier greeted the Emir of Qatar and Sheikha Jawaher at their residence, in a ceremonial welcome on behalf of King Charles III.
The event marked a continuation of Princess Kate’s gradual return to royal duties following her completion of preventative chemotherapy treatment in September. Although she participated in the welcoming ceremony and accompanying events earlier in the day, Kate chose not to attend the evening’s State Banquet at Buckingham Palace. This decision is part of her measured return to public life, as she recovers from her health journey.
During the state visit, Prince William was seen greeting the Emir of Qatar in a maroon tie, featuring a subtle white pattern that echoed the colours of the Qatari flag. His attire was complemented by his newly grown full beard, which has become a more prominent feature of his recent public appearances.
Princess Kate, who also paid tribute to Qatar through her ensemble, wore a maroon coat dress by Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen, paired with a matching hat from Sahar Millinery. The outfit, designed with respect to Qatar’s national colours, was elegantly accessorised with a pearl necklace that once belonged to the late Queen Elizabeth—likely a heartfelt tribute to Prince William’s grandmother.
The royal couple’s afternoon included a ceremonial welcome at Horse Guards Parade, where they were joined by the nation’s leaders to receive the Emir and Sheikha Jawaher. Kate’s sophisticated look was completed with a chignon hairstyle, highlighting her graceful return to royal duties.
This event is part of Princess Kate’s ongoing recovery, which has seen her cautiously step back into the public eye after her health battle. The absence of the Princess at the State Banquet reflects her careful approach to balancing recovery and public responsibilities
