Tungsten carbide (WC) displays a Pt-like behavior in catalysis, applied in hydrogenation processes. Numerous theoretical studies have modeled the behavior and use of adsorbed hydrogen without obtaining a general picture, missing basic links between H 2 dissociation and generation of high surface coverage (Θ H > 0.5 ML). Here, the capability of C-and Wterminations of the α-WC(0001) surface is analyzed to dissociate several H 2 molecules to produce coverages, Θ H , ranging from low to very high values (0.13 < Θ H < 2.00 ML). Density functional theory and an ab initio atomistic thermodynamic were used to achieve the conditions for H 2 dissociation. The WCÀ C surface has higher capacity to dissociate H 2 molecules than WCÀ W. However, both surfaces can reach full surface coverage, Θ H = 1 ML, at mild ambient conditions, T = 300 K and P = 1 atm, and even up to 500 K at low and high pressures. The H-adatoms on WCÀ W are more labile than on WCÀ C. The binding of adsorbates is hindered at high Θ H , implying a need to modulate Θ H according to the application. The results give the basis to understand the capabilities of WC-based catalysts in hydrogenation-related reactions, with the advantage of WC being a hydrogen reservoir at mild practical catalytic conditions.