Police investigate death of receptionist found in Abu Dhabi hotel

Mary Anne Daynolo, from the Philippines, had been missing since March 2020

Mary Anne Daynolo's body was discovered 10 days ago in the Abu Dhabi hotel that she worked in. Courtesy: Daynolo family

The body of a woman who had been missing for almost a year has been found in the Abu Dhabi hotel where she worked.

Mary Anne Daynolo, 30, from the Philippines, was last seen in the evening of March 4, 2020, about an hour before the end of her shift at a Saadiyat island hotel resort.

A family member who lives in the city reported Ms Daynolo's disappearance to Abu Dhabi Police shortly after she went missing. Her body was discovered in the hotel premises last week.

Police officials confirmed her death to The National and said an arrest was made.

They declined to provide further details while the investigation was ongoing.

Residents who lived in apartments attached to the hotel were informed by the management on Sunday.

A relative of Ms Daynolo's told The National they hoped to receive more information soon. Her remains were due to be flown home this week.

Addressing a regular televised briefing in Manila on Monday, presidential spokesman Harry Roque said his government would fund the repatriation and provide the family with financial support.

In a further statement, Philippines embassy in Abu Dhabi "expressed deep sadness and extended condolences to the family of Ms Mary Anne Daynolo, whose dead body has been found by UAE police authorities last 19 January 2021".

"Her remains arrived in Manila on 30 January 2021," it said.

“Ambassador Hjayceelyn M Quintana assured the relatives that the embassy will spare no effort in seeking justice for the death of Ms Daynolo. The embassy lawyer is now closely assisting the family in taking all necessary legal action."