Prince William is embarking on an official visit to Saudi Arabia next week, marking his first to the Middle Eastern nation. The trip, scheduled for to , is being undertaken at the request of His Majesty’s Government and is intended to bolster trade and strengthen the relationship between the UK and Saudi Arabia. However, the Prince of Wales will be traveling solo, with Princess Catherine remaining at home.
While Kensington Palace has not issued a specific reason for the Princess’s absence, sources indicate it aligns with a pattern established in recent months. The decision appears to be rooted in a desire to maintain stability for their children, Prince George, 12, Princess Charlotte, 10, and Prince Louis, 7, particularly during school term time. The Princess reportedly prioritizes being present for their busy schedules, and schoolwork.
This approach isn’t unique to the Prince and Princess of Wales. The dynamic mirrors that of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, who, even during their time as working royals, often opted to have one parent remain home with their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet. While Prince Harry frequently undertakes engagements for charitable causes, Meghan often remains in California with their children.
The upcoming tour represents a significant diplomatic and economic opportunity for the UK. The visit coincides with the approaching centennial of diplomatic relations between the UK and Saudi Arabia in 2027, and aims to capitalize on growing trade, energy, and investment ties. This is particularly noteworthy given the UK government’s previous expressions of concern regarding Saudi Arabia’s human rights record, including sanctions imposed on Saudi nationals linked to the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi in 2020. Recent reports indicate that 2025 saw a record number of executions carried out by Saudi authorities, with at least 356 people put to death, according to Human Rights Watch.
Prince William’s schedule in Saudi Arabia will be packed with engagements designed to foster these crucial relationships. This visit also marks the Prince’s first official overseas trip of the new year, following a late 2023 trip to Kuwait to offer condolences after the death of the former emir, Sheikh Nawaf Al Ahmad Al Sabah. He has previously visited neighboring countries, including the United Arab Emirates and Oman.
The royal family’s relationship with Saudi Arabia dates back to 1979, when Queen Elizabeth II first visited the Kingdom. The current visit by Prince William underscores the continued importance of this relationship, even as the monarchy navigates a changing global landscape and increasing scrutiny of international partnerships.
The decision for Princess Catherine to remain home with their children highlights a shift in priorities for the Prince and Princess of Wales. While royal tours have historically been a cornerstone of royal duty, there’s a growing emphasis on balancing those obligations with the demands of family life. This approach, echoed by other members of the royal family, suggests a more modern and relatable approach to royal parenting, prioritizing consistent presence in their children’s lives. The couple reportedly believe in having at least one parent consistently available for their children, a sentiment shared by Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.
The Prince’s visit to Saudi Arabia is expected to be closely watched, not only for its diplomatic and economic implications, but also as a signal of the UK’s ongoing commitment to the region. The absence of Princess Catherine, while understandable given the family’s priorities, will undoubtedly be noted, but it underscores a broader trend within the royal family towards a more family-focused approach to public duty.
