This invention relates to a process for the selective alkylation of toluene and/or benzene with an oxygen-containing alkylation agent. In particular, the process uses a selectivated molecular sieve which has been modified by the addition of a hydrogenation component, wherein at least one of the following conditions is met: (a) the selectivated molecular sieve has an alpha value of less than 100 prior to the addition of the hydrogenation component, or (b) the selectivated and hydrogenated catalyst has an alpha value of less than 100. The process of this invention provides high selectivity for the alkylated product while reducing catalyst degradation.