Hussain was born on January 31, 1943 in Rotidanga village, Shailkupa under Jhenaidah.

His journey as a prolific architect was rooted in then East Pakistan University of Engineering and Technology, now Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET), where he completed his graduation in 1968.

A poet and litterateur by nature's design, Rabiul Hussain established himself as an eminent Bengali poet and writer authoring over 25 books of poems, essays, novels and children’s books.

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Ki Achhe Ei Ondhokarer Gobhire, Aro Untrishti Chand, Isthirbindur Mohon Sangkat, Karpurer Danawala Pakhi, Bishubrekha, Durdanto, Amnibas, Kobitapunjo, Swapner Sahoshi Manushera, Je Nodi Ratrir, Eisob Neel Opoman, Oproyojoniyo Probondho, Bangladesher Sthapottwo Sangskriti, Nirbachito Kabita, Golpogatha - are some of his literary creations.

Besides being a member of the board of trustees of both the National Museum and the Liberation War Museum, he was also a lifetime member of Bangla Academy and also served in various capacities at Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Memorial Museum, children's cultural organisation Kendriyo Kochi Kachar Mela, National Poetry Council, International Film Critic Association of Bangladesh and the Institute of Architects, Bangladesh

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For his excellence in Bengali literature, Rabiul Hussain was awarded Bangla Academy Literary Award, National Poetry Council Award and IAB Award, alongside the prestigious Ekushey Padak.

Showcasing his architectural brilliance, Rabiul designed Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council (BARC) headquarter; Wazed Miah Science Research Centre (WMSRC), Shaheed Minar and entrance at the Jahangirnagar University campus, noted halls and auditorium complexes in both University of Dhaka and Chittagong University, to name a few.

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As a leading architect in the country, he served as the president of The Institute of Architects, Bangladesh four terms. He also served as the vice-chairman of Architects Regional Council of Asia (ARCASIA), vice-president of Commonwealth Association of Architects (CAA) and president of South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation of Architects (SAARCH). He received Lifetime Achievement Award in 2014, as part of the Berger Award for Excellence in Architecture.

Rabiul Hussain breathed his last on November 26, 2019 in Dhaka at the age of 76.