BLME (Bank of London and the Middle East)
By Adam Parker · FCA regulated · PRA bank
BLME (part of Boubyan Bank, Kuwait, as at 2026) 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.
Founder & Managing Director, Muswell Rose, FundBiz
Adam is the founder and managing director of Muswell Rose and a founder of Best Business Loans Ltd, the company behind FundBiz. His background runs through commercial finance, mortgages and fintech, including as managing director of an invoice finance business. He oversees FundBiz's guides and lender reviews.
Last updated:
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
BLME states its Sharia Supervisory Board provides ongoing structure approval. Confirm current governance arrangements with the bank directly.
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.
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