Qatar’s Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, is set to arrive in Britain on Monday for a two-day state visit hosted by King Charles.
During the visit, the Emir will meet British Prime Minister Keir Starmer as both nations seek to deepen their strategic and economic ties.
Accompanied by a high-level delegation, including Qatar’s Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, the Emir’s visit officially begins on Tuesday.
The state visit comes at a pivotal moment as Britain seeks to attract co-investors for ambitious infrastructure projects, including cleaner energy systems, and finalise a trade deal with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).
The UK’s Labour government, in power since July, is prioritising collaborations with Gulf states to boost economic growth.
The Business and Trade Department has projected that a free trade agreement with the GCC, which includes Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, could add £1.6 billion to the UK economy in the long term.
Qatar already holds significant investments in Britain. The Qatar Investment Authority, the Gulf nation’s sovereign wealth fund, owns stakes in prominent UK businesses, including Barclays, Sainsbury’s, and Canary Wharf, solidifying its role as a key economic partner.
The Emir’s visit underscores the importance of diplomatic and cultural ties between the two nations. On Tuesday morning, he will be welcomed by Prince William and Princess Kate before a formal reception by King Charles and Queen Camilla at the Horse Guards Parade.
The itinerary includes a carriage procession with the royals, a visit to Westminster Abbey, and a grand state banquet.
The Emir, who has visited Britain eight times between 2014 and 2023, last met King Charles during the COP28 climate summit in Dubai in December 2023.
A bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Keir Starmer is scheduled for Wednesday at 10 Downing Street. Starmer, who is set to visit the Gulf region later this month, aims to strengthen partnerships with Qatar and other GCC countries, aligning with Britain’s broader Middle Eastern strategy.
The state visit highlights Britain’s efforts to secure Gulf partnerships to bolster its economy and enhance ties with a region rich in investment opportunities. The Emir’s departure is scheduled for Wednesday evening, following a productive and ceremonial two days in Britain.
