Kate Middleton made a rare public appearance on Tuesday, Dec. 3, as she continues her recovery from cancer treatment. The Princess of Wales joined her husband, Prince William, in welcoming the Amir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, and his wife, Sheikha Jawaher, to the U.K.
The royal couple met the Qatari guests at Horse Guards Parade, where they were greeted with ceremonial honors, including the national anthem. King Charles, who had traveled from Buckingham Palace, also attended the event, though Queen Camilla was absent due to lingering effects of a recent chest infection.
For the occasion, Kate wore a burgundy Alexander McQueen coat and Sahar Millinery hat, matching the colors of the Qatari flag. She accessorized with jewelry from the late Queen Elizabeth, including the Bahrain pearl drop earrings and Japanese pearl choker necklace.
Following the greeting ceremony, Kate and Prince William traveled with the Qatari dignitaries to Buckingham Palace. While Kate did not attend the evening’s banquet at the palace due to her ongoing recovery, Queen Camilla was expected to participate in the event after briefly retiring.
Kate, who announced in March that she was undergoing cancer treatment, had previously shared that she completed chemotherapy in September. This public appearance marks her first major ceremonial event since the treatment’s conclusion, following her attendance at the Festival of Remembrance and Remembrance Sunday services in November.
In the coming days, Kate and William are set to host their annual Together at Christmas carol service at Westminster Abbey, a poignant occasion that highlights the royal family’s holiday spirit. The service will feature a message of love and reflection, offering an opportunity for guests to pause and appreciate the deeper connections that unite us all.
