Queen Camilla, 77, has made significant adjustments to her itinerary for the highly anticipated state visit by Qatar's Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and his wife, Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Hamad bin Suhaim Al Thani. Buckingham Palace confirmed on December 2 that the Queen would skip the ceremonial welcome at Horse Guards Parade on December 3 due to lingering effects of a chest infection first announced in early November.
The Queen, known for her steadfast dedication to royal duties, has been battling post-viral fatigue and diminished energy levels. Her absence at the outdoor welcome ceremony marks a notable shift in the royal schedule. Prince William and Catherine, the Princess of Wales, are expected to attend the ceremony in her place, while Camilla focuses on recuperation.
In a statement, Buckingham Palace reiterated that there had been no change to Queen Camilla's diagnosis or treatment plan. Royal doctors, however, remain cautious, advising her to rest as she continues to recover from the infection. Camilla first fell ill following an extended trip to Australia and Samoa earlier this year, which has since led to her withdrawal from several high-profile events, including the Remembrance Sunday Weekend and the Royal Variety Performance in November.
Despite her reduced schedule, Queen Camilla will participate in other elements of the two-day state visit. She plans to attend the formal lunch at Buckingham Palace, join the King and their guests for a viewing of royal artifacts, and make a brief appearance at the state banquet. While she will pose for official photographs at the dinner's commencement, she will forego the traditional receiving line to conserve energy.
Royal watchers note the adjustments as a prudent measure for the Queen's well-being, given the demands of state visits. Camilla is also scheduled to attend the Entente Littéraire Prize Ceremony alongside French First Lady Brigitte Macron on December 4, signaling her gradual return to a full schedule.
Speaking at a reception for The Booker Prize Foundation in mid-November, Queen Camilla reflected on her recovery, sharing, "I'm obviously getting much better, bit of sort of coughing going on. I really wanted to come." The event, held at Clarence House, marked one of her first public appearances since her illness.
Queen Camilla's recent health challenges come as other senior royals, including Princess Catherine, who is also navigating her return to public duties following a cancer diagnosis, take on more visible roles.
