Samiha Ayverdi was born in İstanbul to Fatma Meliha Hanim and İsmail Hakkı Bey, an Ottoman military official.

She studied at Süleymaniye Kız Numune Mektebi and among other things, learned French and read about philosophy and Islamic mysticism.

She became a follower and later official successor of Sufi thinker Kenan Rıfai, who became a major influence in her work.

Her novel that best reflects her longing for the past is İbrahim Efendi Mansion, which is also included in the list of 100 Essential Works.

In 1992, she received the Outstanding Service Award given by the Professional Association of Owners of Scientific and Literary Works of Turkey (İLESAM).