The Masdar Institute of Science and Technology (Masdar Institute) is a graduate level, research-oriented university which is focused on alternative energy, sustainability, and the environment. It is located in Masdar City in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. Masdar Institute is an integral part of the non-profit side of the Masdar Initiative and will be the first institution to occupy Masdar City. The Technology and Development Program at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology is providing scholarly assessment and advice to Masdar Institute. Masdar Institute was established on February 25, 2007 and has commenced with 170 students from 32 countries in spring 2011. The establishment of Masdar Institute is part of a resource diversification policy for the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. Abu Dhabi's leadership views research and education in alternative energy as a keystone for the future development of the emirate and have expressed their commitment through the establishment of Masdar Initiative, Masdar City and the Zayed Future Energy Prize.