A Beta/MCM-41 composite zeolite with a stepwise-distributed pore structure was prepared with a silica-alumina source originated from alkaline treatment of zeolite Beta. The material was characterized by various techniques. The results indicated that this composite possesses a mesopore system of MCM-41 and the microporous structure of Beta zeolite. Hydrothermal stability and acidity was improved over MCM-41 due to the introduction of Beta building units into the mesopore walls. The composite was used as the support of a Pd-Pt catalyst for the hydrogenation of naphthalene in the presence and absence of 4, 6-dimethyldibenzothiophene. It was demonstrated that the catalyst has an enhanced activity and sulfur tolerance during naphthalene hydrogenation. (C) 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.