And with Tyrrell Hatton, Francesco Laporta and Rory McIlroy all within striking distance, we are set for an epic closing Sunday at the DP World Tour's penultimate event of the season.

Two-time Major champion Rahm produced a brilliant six-under-par 66 to reach 18 under, turning a relatively slow start into a commanding performance with a spectacular burst of scoring after the turn.

The Spaniard, who began the third round tied for the lead alongside Hatton and Laporta, caught fire with a birdie-eagle-birdie run from the tenth hole, moving clear of his rivals and putting himself in pole position to claim another Rolex Series title.

Rahm already has five Rolex Series victories to his name and could move one ahead of close friend and rival Hatton with victory in the UAE capital.

"It was a good day overall," said Rahm.

"Just Holes 4, 5, and 6 got away from me for a second. A couple of bad swings, one bogey and was able to minimise the damage on the other two.

"From then on, I played some decent golf, I would say all day, except those three holes. I was in a good position on every single hole with a chance for birdie."

Despite his impressive finish, Rahm felt there were still shots left out on the course.

"Fantastic round. Wishing I would have hit a couple better putts in the last two holes – just misread those two putts. But overall, obviously very good golf."

Rory McIlroy believes a low round on Sunday could put him right in the mix

McIlroy ready to go low

While Rahm leads the way, Rory McIlroy remains firmly in contention, sitting alone in fourth place at 16 under, just two shots off the pace.

The Northern Irishman knows exactly what it takes to produce a dramatic final-round charge at Yas Links, having closed with a sensational 62 at last year's tournament.

And with conditions offering plenty of scoring opportunities, McIlroy believes another low round could put him right in the mix.

"There's low ones out there and I'm going to have to go out and shoot a low one, something in the mid to low 60s to get it done tomorrow, and that will be the goal," he said.

With McIlroy chasing a record-equalling eighth Race to Dubai crown this season, every shot matters as the DP World Tour Play-Offs move towards their conclusion in Dubai next week.

England's Tyrrell Hatton (pictured) will be reunited with Rahm and Francesco Laporta in Sunday's final group, with Hatton and Laporta both sitting at 17 under, just one shot behind the leader

A blockbuster Sunday in Abu Dhabi

Rahm, Hatton and Laporta will reunite in Sunday's final group, with Hatton and Laporta both sitting at 17 under, just one shot behind the leader.

It sets up a fascinating final day at Yas Links, with three players separated by a single stroke at the top and McIlroy lurking just behind.

Beyond the action on the course, the Abu Dhabi Aldar Championship is also hosting a Family Weekend as part of the UAE's Year of the Family celebrations.

Children aged 17 and under can attend free throughout tournament week, with the Championship Village featuring interactive golf challenges, free lessons for young golfers, live entertainment and family activities.

The Abu Dhabi event is the first of two tournaments in the DP World Tour Play-Offs, with the season concluding at the DP World Tour Championship at Jumeirah Golf Estates from November 12–15.

But before the spotlight shifts to Dubai, there is still a trophy to be won in Abu Dhabi.

And with Rahm, Hatton, Laporta and McIlroy all in the hunt, Sunday's finale promises plenty of drama.