Alumina coated nickel nanoparticles were prepared employing atomic layer deposition (AD) on nickel oxide (NiO) nanoparticles and subsequent reduction of the NiO core. The materials showed impressive activity and stability for dry reforming of methane at elevated temperatures (700-800 degrees C), especially when compared to the uncoated and reduced NiO nanoparticles. The stabilization against sintering at high temperatures is the crucial factor explaining the high catalytic activity of alumina coated Ni nanoparticles. (C) 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.