England, replying to Pakistan’s first innings total of 234, were 285-7 at lunch on the third day of the third and final Test on Tuesday, a lead of 51.
Adil Rashid was dismissed for eight by the last ball before lunch, while Samit Patel was unbeaten on 41.
England had started the day on 222-4 at Sharjah stadium.
Pakistan lead the three-match series 1-0 after winning the second Test in Dubai by 178 runs. The first Test in Abu Dhabi ended in a draw.