Abstract: The present invention is directed toward a hydrogenation process using a highly active aromatics hydrogenation catalyst. The catalyst is prepared by decomposing a catalyst precursor selected from the group consisting of metal amine molybdates, metal amine tungstates and mixtures thereof, wherein said metal amine catalyst precursor has the general formula ML (Mo.sub.y W.sub.1-y O.sub.4).sub.a where M is Cr and/or one or more divalent promoter metals selected from the group consisting of Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu and Zn; L is one or more neutral nitrogen-containing ligands at least one of which is a chelating polydentate ligand; 0.ltoreq.y.ltoreq.1; and a=1 for non-chromium containing catalysts and wherein 0.5.ltoreq.a.ltoreq.3 for chromium containing catalysts, at a temperature of about 200.degree. C. to about 400.degree. C. in an inert atmosphere; then reducing at a temperature of about 300.degree. C. to about 450.degree. C.