Hierarchical ZSM-5 zeolites were synthesized by alkaline desilication and a surfactant induced re-assembly. Contrary to the purely alkaline desilicated zeolites a strong increase in external surface area, a narrow pore size distribution of 3-10 nm and a decreased Brönsted acidity could be achieved when using CTAB as a surfactant throughout the alkaline treatment. The hierarchical pore system and the decreased acidity lead to an improved catalyst lifetime in the methanol to hydrocarbon conversion. A further improvement could be accomplished by increasing the surfactant concentration during the desilication re-assembly preparation. Tailoring of mesopore size and specific surface area was achieved using surfactants with different chain lengths.