“The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are looking forward to extended family time towards the end of this month. Having spent the last two Christmases at Sandringham, [the couple] will spend the holiday this year, as a new family, with the duchess’ mother, Doria,” the statement reads.
“This decision is in line with precedent set previously by other members of the royal family, and has the support of Her Majesty The Queen.”
Royal biographer Ingrid Seward believes the decision will leave the Queen “hurt”.
Speaking to Express.co.uk, she explained: “Christmas at Sandringham can be quite stressful so perhaps they don’t want to go with Archie at such a young age.
“Having said that, Sandringham has played host to many many children through the ages and is well set up for them."
“I think it’s sad they don’t want to be part of the family gathering, particularly now the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh are in their dotage.
“The Queen might be a little hurt but she’s far too gracious to ever let it show or be known,” Ingrid said.
Meghan and Harry will take their leave after the Duke attends a Royal Albert Hall event on Sunday.
It's unclear whether the Sussexes will spend Christmas in Doria's hometown of LA, or elsewhere in the US.