With that context in mind, her choice of venue caused a stir. The Ritz-Carlton was the same site used during Saudi Arabia’s 2017 anti-corruption purge, when several princes and business elites were detained—an episode widely criticised for allegations of mistreatment.
Back in Britain, insiders raised concerns about optics, optics that might feel misaligned while her parents were at the centre of public condemnation.
A Palace ‘Blindsided’?
According to British tabloid Closer, the outing “blindsided” the Prince and Princess of Wales.
“It was seen as tone-deaf, especially given the venue’s reputation and the recent controversies surrounding Andrew and Sarah,” a source told the outlet.
The insider also added: “William and Kate were genuinely upset when the pictures emerged. They have been very supportive of Beatrice and Eugenie and hope now that they will tow the Palace line.”
New Rules Moving Forward
The same source claims the Palace has since tightened expectations. The royal institution has now “made it crystal clear” that public engagements must be “signed off and vetted by senior aides” before being approved.