Sayid Abdullah, a member of the ruling dynasty of Khiva, ascended to the throne following the death of his uncle, Muhammad Rahim Khan. This transition marked a critical point in the history of Khiva, which had been a prominent khanate in Central Asia. The leadership of Sayid Abdullah came during a tumultuous period as the Russian Empire's influence was receding, and the complexities of local governance were becoming increasingly pronounced. Sayid Abdullah’s reign was under constant scrutiny, given the growing desires for independence and reform among the local populace. His leadership style combined aspects of traditional governance with the pressures of modern political realities, including the rise of Bolshevism in the area.

The political landscape was shifting dramatically with the end of the World War and the events following the Russian Revolution. Khiva was one of several khanates in the region, and Abdullah's rise signaled the final chapter of local monarchies in the face of Soviet expansion. His position was not merely ceremonial; he was expected to navigate the delicate balance between maintaining khanate traditions and responding to the changing ideological tides. Abdullah’s rule continued until the eventual Soviet takeover, solidifying his status as the last khan of Khiva and capping off centuries of largely autonomous governance in the area. The implications of his leadership are still studied today.