A state visit is the most formal visit a head of state can make, hosted by the monarch with full ceremonial honors: official welcomes, carriage processions, gun salutes and a state banquet. Britain holds only a few each year, making an invitation a powerful diplomatic signal. The Sultan of Oman’s October 2026 visit, centered on Windsor Castle, placed the UK–Oman relationship at the very top of that register.
(The White House / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain))
Mentioned in: Kate Middleton and Prince William Make a Grand Appearance at Windsor Castle for State Visit