Abu Dhabi, Mar 16 (IANS/WAM): Short films produced in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) will participate in the 2012 Cannes Film Festival, an official said.

The Abu Dhabi Film Commission Thursday called for submissions for short films by UAE filmmakers to be screened at the Short Film Corner during the Cannes festival.

For the third straight year, the film commission will submit up to 20 short films to the Short Film Corner at the Marche Du Film.

The films will also be screened at the Abu Dhabi Pavilion for film professionals from around the world.

"Short films have become an increasingly important way for filmmakers from the UAE to gain worldwide exposure," said Abu Dhabi Film Commission director David Shepheard.

"Short films provide calling cards for filmmakers' talent and creativity, and having the ability to have your film seen by potentially thousands of film professionals at the Cannes Film Festival and Marche du Film is a valuable opportunity we are pleased to offer," he said.

The Festival de Cannes will be held May 16-27.