Kate Middleton makes rare appearance to welcome Amir of Qatar amid cancer recovery

Kate Middleton returns to royal duties with Prince William, greeting Qatar’s Amir and his wife.

On December 3, 2024, Catherine, Princess of Wales, made a rare public appearance alongside Prince William as they welcomed the Amir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, and his wife, Sheikha Jawaher bint Hamad bin Suhaim Al Thani, to the UK. This marked an important return for Kate, who has been recovering from cancer treatment throughout 2024.

The royal couple began the day with a warm reception at their London residence before accompanying their guests to the ceremonial welcome at Horse Guards Parade. The event, attended by King Charles, featured traditional pageantry, including a procession down the Mall lined with British and Qatari flags. Queen Camilla, recovering from a chest infection, missed the outdoor event but is expected to participate in the lunch and the viewing of royal treasures later.

Kate’s outfit reflected the occasion’s significance, as she wore a burgundy coat by Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen, complementing the colors of the Qatari flag. Her jewelry included the late Queen Elizabeth's Bahrain pearl drop earrings and Japanese pearl choker, symbolizing continuity and connection to royal heritage.

After the ceremony, Kate and William joined King Charles and the Qatari guests for a carriage procession to Buckingham Palace, where lunch and a display of treasures from the Royal Collection awaited. The day’s events will conclude with a grand banquet at Buckingham Palace, though Kate will not attend due to her ongoing recovery.

This public appearance follows Kate’s announcement in September that she completed chemotherapy. Her return to royal duties began in November with appearances at the Festival of Remembrance and Remembrance Sunday. On December 6, she and William will host their annual "Together at Christmas" carol service, continuing her re-engagement with royal life.