The MoS2 catalysts were prepared from various molybdate precursors including inorganic and organic molybdate compounds. The sulifdation degree and morphology of active phases of MoS2 activated by various molybdate precursors in H2S/H2 stream at different temperatures were studied by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and high-resolution trans-mission electron microscopy (HRTEM). The organic molybdate precursors lead to MoS2 catalysts with higher sulifdation degree and smaller active phases to demonstrate higher catalytic activity during hydrodesulfurizaiton (HDS) of 4,6-DMDBT.