BLME (Bank of London and the Middle East)
By Oliver Mackman · Reviewed 2026-04-26 · FCA regulated · PRA bank
BLME (now part of Boubyan Bank, Kuwait) is a wholesale-focused Sharia-compliant UK bank. Engages on larger commercial finance, asset finance and structured deals. Less retail-friendly than Al Rayan; more institutional-feeling counterparty. Best for larger established UK SMEs with structured-deal requirements.
Sharia structures offered
- · Murabaha
- · Ijara
- · Wakala
Pros
- ✓ PRA-regulated UK bank.
- ✓ Strong on £500k+ structured deals.
- ✓ Asset finance and Murabaha-based commercial finance.
- ✓ Owned by Boubyan (Kuwait), well-capitalised parent.
Cons
- ✗ Less retail-friendly journey than Al Rayan.
- ✗ Sub-£500k tickets generally declined.
- ✗ Pricing transparency lower than mainstream.
Best for
- · Larger SMEs with structured-deal needs
- · Asset finance £500k+
- · Wholesale-feel counterparty preference
Weak at
- · Self-serve retail journeys
- · Sub-£500k working capital
Sharia governance
Sharia Supervisory Board provides ongoing structure approval.
How to apply
Apply directly via www.blme.com. BLME (Bank of London and the Middle East) works on a relationship basis for commercial finance; expect a qualified call before a written term sheet.
Editorial only. We are not an FCA-authorised adviser. BLME (Bank of London and the Middle East) did not pay for or pre-approve this review.