The feedstock to an aromatization process is processed by a selective adsorption step to remove hydrocarbon species, particularly indan, which have a severe adverse effect on aromatization catalyst stability. The feedstock preferably is a paraffinic raffinate from aromatics extraction. The intermediate from the adsorption step is particularly suitable for the selective conversion of paraffins to aromatics using a high-activity dehydrocyclization catalyst with high aromatics yields and long catalyst life.