Emirates Airline has been included in the top 200 of the worlds biggest brands for the first time, according to the 2015 Brand Finance Global 500 report.

For the fourth consecutive year, Emirates has climbed the table of the Top 500 most valuable brands in the world which is topped by Apple, followed by Samsung and Google.

Now 196th, an increase of 38 spots in the last 12 months, the Dubai-based airline said it attributes its success to a strong commitment to product and service excellence, as well as investments in its brand.

According to the list, Emirates estimated brand value has grown more than 21% from $5.48 billion to $6.6 billion.

The airline also retains its position as the most valuable brand in the Middle East, and the most valuable airline brand.

Sir Tim Clark, president Emirates Airline, said: Emirates is a global company serving a global audience, and as we grow our business we have to also grow our brand. Our brand strategy does not only involve marketing and sponsorships, but everything we do including product innovation and service delivery.

For us, our customers are the ultimate judges and jury. Being named the most valuable airline brand in the world is great recognition for each and every one of our staff, as they are the ones who live, breathe and deliver the Emirates brand every day in the work they do.

The strength of the Emirates brand also underscores the positive impact that we are making on our industry, and we will continue to work hard and invest in our brand. Our aim is to become one of the worlds leading lifestyle brands, and to make the Emirates name synonymous with aspirational travel and experiences.

David Haigh, Brand Finance CEO, added: Emirates remains the flag carrier brand for the entire Middle East. Its $6.6 billion brand value makes it both the regions most valuable brand and the worlds most valuable airline. Its extensive sports sponsorship and global route network make it recognised the world over. However it is Emirates exceptional service and reliability that truly underpin the brand.

In 2014, Emirates marked a record launch of 10 new A380 routes, bringing the network to over 145 passenger and cargo destinations, from Burkina Faso to Buenos Aires, and spanning six continents. In addition, Emirates added frequencies to 20 existing destinations, increasing flight choices for its customers.

In 2015 the airline operates, on average, 3,500 flights per week. Its fleet has also grown substantially to over 230 aircraft, with receipt of the companys largest order of Airbus A380s and Boeing 777-300ERs to date, in 2013 and 2014.