Rory McIlroy hit five birdies during his third round
Season Finale Third-Round Leaderboard
-13 R McIlroy (Northern Ireland), R Neergaard-Petersen (Den); -12 A Ayora (Spa), L Canter (Eng), M Fitzpatrick (England), T Fleetwood (Eng), T Hatton (England), R Hojgaard (Denmark)
Notable scores: -11 L Aberg (Sweden), N Hojgaard (Den), J Rose (Eng); -10 S Lowry (Ireland), R MacIntyre (Sco); -8 J Parry (England); -4 M Penge (England)
The world-class golfer sank three birdies over the closing stretch to move into the joint lead of the tournament finale and close in on a seventh year-end tour championship title.
McIlroy carded a four-under-par 68 in Dubai, in a performance featuring five birdies with one bogey to climb to 13-under-par, joining Danish golfer Neergaard-Petersen.
England's Laurie Canter (68), Matt Fitzpatrick (66), Tommy Fleetwood (68) and Tyrrell Hatton (67) sit at 12-under-par, together with Spain's Ayora (67) and Denmark's Hojgaard (65).
"Overall, a bit of a battling day," said McIlroy. "Weather conditions proved difficult but pleased with shooting my score."
The 36-year-old has a substantial lead in the annual standings as he pursues his fourth straight tour championship title.
Tyrrell Hatton and fellow Englishman Penge are the only two who can stop McIlroy from claiming the season-long title.
The English golfer needs to win the tournament while requiring his rival finish worse than tied for eighth to secure the title.
"My position is stronger compared to him [Hatton]," added the tournament leader. "I'm focused on myself. If I play and play the golf at the level that I'm capable of, especially around this layout, I know that I'll succeed.
"That would represent an amazing way to conclude the year."
Marco Penge shot an improved 68 in round three after scores of 74 and 70, yet appears out of contention on four under.
