The London Middle East Institute (LMEI) is a think tank focused on the issues facing the Middle East. The institute is based at the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS) and draws upon the resources of London and SOAS to provide teaching, training, research, publication, consultancy, outreach and other services. With its own professional staff of Middle East experts, the LMEI is further strengthened by its academic membership - the largest concentration of Middle Eastern expertise in any institution in Europe.

The origin of the LMEI dates back to the mid-90s, when Sheikh Mohamed recognised the need for a high-profile international forum for the study and understanding of the Middle East. He envisaged a centre of expertise and resources for academics as well as for the world of business, government, the media and NGOs.  He set about the realisation of his aim by founding the MBI Trust at SOAS, where he initiated a scholarship programme aimed at nurturing leadership skills in young Arabs at elite institutions in London.

In 2000 Sheikh Mohamed finally achieved his aim, playing a critical role in the creation of the London Middle East Institute, of which he is both Founding Patron and Donor. He also endowed the MBI Al Jaber Chair in Middle Eastern Studies and the Directorship of LMEI. He remains an avid supporter of the institute and is extremely proud of its work.