Ibn al-Haytham was born in Basra, which is in modern-day Iraq. Little is concretely known about his early life and upbringing. Basra, at this time, was a major intellectual center of the Abbasid Caliphate, exposing him to rich traditions of Greek philosophy, mathematics, and scientific inquiry. The vibrant intellectual environment likely fostered his innate curiosity and thirst for knowledge.

Details of Ibn al-Haytham's early career are scarce. Historical accounts suggest he may have held some sort of governmental or administrative position in Basra. Stories circulate (though their veracity is questioned) that he feigned madness to avoid such a post, preferring to dedicate his life to learning and scientific pursuits rather than burdensome official duties.