As Kate Middleton continues to recover from cancer after finishing chemotherapy earlier this year, her program of public engagements remains scaled back. Therefore, the Princess of Wales won’t be in attendance at tonight’s State Banquet at Buckingham Palace honoring the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, and his first wife, Sheikha Jawaher.

In September, when Kate announced she finished chemotherapy, it was made clear that she would have a “light” program of work between now and the end of the year, focusing on a gradual return to work.

“Doing what I can to stay cancer free is now my focus,” she shared in a video (watch above) released in September. “Although I have finished chemotherapy, my path to healing and full recovery is long and I must continue to take each day as it comes. I am however looking forward to being back at work and undertaking a few more public engagements in the coming months when I can.”

Since, she has attended just a handful of public engagements, including Remembrance Sunday, and this morning’s ceremonial welcome.

The Princess of Wales, Prince William, and Sheikha Jawaher at Horse Guards Parade this morning.

This morning, Kate wore an Alexander McQueen coat designed by Sarah Burton, and a Sahar Millinery burgundy beret. She accessorized with a piece of significant jewelry: Queen Elizabeth’s four-strand pearl choker necklace, designed by Garrad.

On Friday, Kate will host her annual Christmas Carol service at Westminster Abbey. “Christmas is one of my favourite times of the year. It is a time for celebration and joy, but it also gives us the opportunity to slow down and reflect on the deeper things that connect us all,” the Princess wrote in a letter that all guests will receive. “It is when we stop and take ourselves away from the pressures of daily life, that we find the space to live our lives with an open heart, with love, kindness and forgiveness – so much of what the Christmas spirit is all about.”

Emily Burack (she/her) is the Senior News Editor for Town & Country, where she covers entertainment, celebrities, the royals, and a wide range of other topics. Before joining T&C, she was the deputy managing editor at Hey Alma, a Jewish culture site. Follow her @emburack on Twitter and Instagram.