Hattoum was born in Beyrouth in 1952, and graduated simultaneously from the Beyrouth University College and the London Byam Show School of Art in 1972. In 1982, she graduated from the London Slade School of Art. She was a resident artist in a number of institutions in Europe and Canada, and has taught in a number of colleges in Europe, notably at the London St. Martin’s College of Arts & Design.

Her installations using soap, kitchen utensils, etc.., and video productions have been shown in group exhibits in the US, UK, Spain, Canada, Austria, etc.. She has held a number of personal exhibits in Jerusalem, and in a number of European cities. She also participated in the Cultural Spring celebrations in Paris. She was short listed for the Turner Prize in 1995.