More than 10 per cent of the $400,000 raised by Inter-Continental Hotels and Resorts for the United Nations Children's Fund (Unicef) has been forwarded by the hotel chain's Middle East properties.

The hotel group had asked guests staying at its hotels worldwide to contribute to Unicef's 'Round Up for Children' campaign by rounding their hotel bills when checking out so that their donations go directly to Unicef.

The campaign, launched globally by Inter-Continental at the start of the year, was developed by Inter-Con. to mark the 50th anniversary of both organisations.

Anthony Liddiard, area vice-president sales and marketing, Inter-Continental Hotels and Resorts for Middle East and Africa, said: "We are very pleased with our progress to date. However, the two organisations are committed to raise at least $1 million for the world's underprivileged children. All Inter-Con. staff are fully behind our campaign and hope that our guests will continue to join us in supporting the campaign when they can."

He added that $10 equivalent to Dh37 may not be a significant amount to most people but it could help protect 300 children from blindness. "That amount would provide Vitamin A tablets to help protect children from the debilitating effects of too little of the vitamin in a child's diet," said Mr Liddiard.

Antonio Banderas, the star of a number of action movies, has joined in Inter-Con's fund-raising efforts, by making an appearance on television explaining how guests can 'round-up' their total hotel bill for Unicef.

"Banderas is internationally-recognised. He brings star quality, a strong commitment to Unicef and sincere concern for children worldwide. We are delighted that he agreed to speak on behalf of this project," said Mr Liddiard.

The "Round Up For Children," campaign will continue till the end of the year, so people still have the chance to make a big difference in the life of the child for a small contribution, he said.