Lack of historical information makes this structure mysterious. It is deemed a male necropolis of the last Samarqand Timurids, descendants of Abu-Said (1451— 1468/9).

The mausoleum was built by order of the governor Abu Said in the 70s of the 15th century when the burial capacity of the Gur-Emir practically exhausted. The Ak-Sarai looks unattractive since its decor is very laconic and the dome remains unfinished.
The mausoleum of the Samarkand Timurids includes a cross-shaped memorial hall, comer cells, and a three-part hall. Under the mausoleum, there is an octagonal marbled crypt. The crossed arches and shield-shaped sails support the domed ceiling of the hall.However, the inner interior does not conform to the outer design- large richly gilded fragments of ornamental paintings in the “kundal” style (laying paints with gold covers on the relief ornament) remain on its walls, sails, and dome.
The relief, gold and wide colour gamut of vegetative patterns remind of rich carpet fabrics.