Abstract: A method for the non-oxidative conversion of methane into hydrogen, in addition to C2 and higher hydrocarbons is disclosed. Pure methane is irradiated in a reaction zone which involves the multi-photon dissociation of methane under the influence of ultra-violet laser radiation at about 193 to about 400 nm, at room temperature and at a pressure ranging from 0.5 to 4 atmospheres. The products generated as a result of methane conversion are hydrogen and higher hydrocarbons which include ethane, ethylene, propane, propylene and isobutene. A conversion of 7-10% was achieved. The hydrogen yield achieved in one hour exposure of methane at ambient temperature and one atmosphere of pressure was 6.6 mole %.