**Princess of Wales Holds Special Welcome for Sultan of Oman in Windsor**
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On 20th October 2026, the Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton, participated in a ceremonial welcome for Sultan Haitham bin Tarik of Oman as he commenced his official state visit to the United Kingdom. The royal event took place in the historic setting of Windsor, where Princess Kate’s graceful curtsy was among the highlights of the day.
The occasion began at the Sultan’s residence, where the Prince of Wales welcomed their distinguished guest. Following this, they journeyed to Windsor Castle, bringing together members of the royal family, including King Charles III and Queen Camilla, for an official reception. As Sultan Haitham stepped onto the Royal Dais, he first exchanged handshakes with King Charles and Queen Camilla before being introduced to Princess Kate.
Upon greeting the Sultan, the Princess of Wales, 44, executed a curtsey as she took his hand, offering a warm welcome. Interestingly, this visit marked a change in protocol; Princess Kate did not perform a curtsy for King Charles and Queen Camilla at this event, a departure from customary behaviour during formal receptions. One possible explanation for this alteration could be that she had already greeted the royal couple earlier in the day, having arrived separately rather than alongside Prince William.
Traditionally, members of the royal family engage in certain formal gestures when meeting one another and official guests. Princess Kate, who is poised to become queen in the future, typically adheres to royal etiquette by bowing or curtseying to the monarch and his wife. For members of the public, the royal family’s official website outlines that men should perform a neck bow while women should curtsy.
For this distinguished event, Princess Kate donned a sophisticated green coat designed by Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen, complemented by a stylish hat from Juliette Botterill. The choice of green was symbolic, as it is one of the colours of Oman’s national flag, demonstrating her thoughtful consideration for international customs and her commitment to making guests feel welcomed.
After the formal introductions, a charming horse-drawn carriage procession ensued, winding through the picturesque streets of Windsor en route to the iconic Windsor Castle. King Charles shared the Irish State Coach with Sultan Haitham, while Queen Camilla rode alongside the Deputy Prime Minister in the Scottish State Coach. The Prince and Princess of Wales rode together in the Australian State Coach, accompanied by Omani dignitaries, Sayyid Theyazin bin Haitham Al Said and Sayyid Loay bin Ghalib Al Said.
As the royal family reached the Quadrangle of Windsor Castle, a regimental band performed the national anthems of both Oman and the United Kingdom. Following the musical tribute, Sultan Haitham and King Charles inspected the Guard of Honour, enhancing the ceremonial atmosphere. The welcoming festivities also included a military parade, in which Princess Kate, Prince William, and Queen Camilla joined the Sultan and King to observe.
Once the formal welcome had concluded, the Sultan was invited to lunch with King Charles and other royal family members. Post-luncheon activities were set to take place within the opulent confines of Windsor Castle’s Green Drawing Room, where the royal collection featuring notable items related to Oman would be presented to their guest.
As evening approached, the regal setting of Windsor Castle prepared for a lavish state banquet. The event required white-tie attire, with expectations for both Princess Kate and Queen Camilla to adorn tiaras, a hallmark of royal elegance during formal occasions.
This state visit by Sultan Haitham not only reinforces diplomatic ties between Oman and the UK but also highlights the ongoing traditions of royal receptions in a modern context. Princess Kate’s thoughtful gestures and adherence to royal protocol exemplify the evolving yet steadfast nature of royal duties, all while ensuring the hospitality and warmth associated with the British monarchy are presented to esteemed guests.