Pakistani artist paints portrait of visiting British royal couple

Rabia Zakir says she wants to personally present 'gift' to Duke and Duchess of Cambridge

Pakistani artist Rabia Zakir has painted a portrait of British royal couple, Prince William and his wife, Kate Middleton who arrived in Islamabad Monday on a five-day official visit.

The 27-year old artist told Arab News that it took her 15 days to complete the task and she wanted to present the gift to the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge personally.

PHOTO COURTESY: RABIA ZAKIR

“It is a gift that I painted for the royal couple. I want to present this personally to them [and for the purpose], government officials and the British High Commission to Pakistan are in touch with me,” she said, adding that “nothing has been finalised yet”.

She said their trip will show the world that Pakistan was a safe country to visit and help rebuild its image.

This is the royal couple’s first visit to Pakistan where they are expected to meet a range of people, including young children.

PHOTO COURTESY: RABIA ZAKIR

Previously, Zakir has painted the portraits of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and other members of royal families across the Middle East, including the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain.

Her work is on display in 50 embassies and high commissions in Pakistan, including those of Saudi Arabia and the UAE.