The Princess of Wales will play a part in the imminent State Visit with Buckingham Palace sharing her important role. 

The Amir of the State of Qatar, His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, and his wife, Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Hamad bin Suhaim Al Thani, will officially visit King Charles and Queen Camilla on 3 and 4 December. Buckingham Palace has revealed the initial plans for the visit, including the Princess’s role. 

The Prince and Princess of Wales will greet the Amir and his wife at their residence when they first arrive. All four will then travel to Horse Guards Parade in London where they will meet The King and Queen.

The official welcome ceremony takes place there with both national anthems played. It will be followed by a carriage procession back to Buckingham Palace.

On arrival, they will be met by a Guard of Honour. After a private lunch, there will be a viewing of items from the Royal Collection that are connected to Qatar. 

Buckingham Palace has also confirmed that the Princess of Wales will not attend the State Banquet on the evening of the first day of the visit. When she announced earlier this autumn that she had completed chemotherapy, the Princess said her health would dictate which engagements she could take on.

The State Visit comes three days before the Princess is set to host her annual Christmas Carol service at Westminster Abbey.

This will be the last State Banquet at Buckingham Palace for several years. From 2025, State Visits will be hosted at Windsor Castle as renovation work at Buckingham Palace continues.