The Mercedes duo have dominated the 2014 campaign, winning all but three of the previous 18 races between them.
Hamilton has topped the podium in 10 of those - twice as often as his team-mate - but holds just a 17-point advantage heading into the final meeting of the season.
In previous F1 years, that lead would see the Brit come into the weekend's action as the firm favourite, but the controversial double points system gives Rosberg an increased chance of snatching victory away from his rival.
Should the German clinch his sixth victory of the campaign, Hamilton would have to finish second in order to seal his second world title, while anything lower would see Rosberg secure the drivers' championship for the first time.
Rosberg's victory in Brazil last time out boosted his chances, but Hamilton believes his dramatic title success in 2008 - when he grabbed the fifth place he needed to be crowned world champion on the last lap of the final race of the season - will aid his cause in Abu Dhabi.
"People talk about how long it's been since I won the title - but I honestly feel like I'm fighting for my first world championship all over again," he said.
"Sure, I'm older and maybe a little bit wiser than I was back then. I've learnt a lot in the years since 2008 - but I'm still the same driver.
"I still have the same hunger, the same will to win, and I've been giving it everything I've got from the word go this season. I've had ups and downs along the way - but I've never once given up."
Hamilton finished seventh in last year's race in Abu Dhabi, while in 2012 he started on pole but was eventually forced to retire - both results he is hoping to avoid this time around.
"I've got a good record at the Abu Dhabi circuit," he said. "Last year was actually the only time I've not started on the front row or finished on the podium.
"But I've also had some misfortune there over the years - particularly in 2012. I'm hoping that bad luck won't play a part this time around and I know that the team has been working flat out to make sure it doesn't.
"I'm feeling relaxed, I'm feeling confident and I'm ready to win."
Mercedes sealed their 11th one-two of a dominant season in Brazil and although a repeat result would see Hamilton clinch glory, Rosberg is confident of following in the footsteps of his father Keke, who won the F1 title in 1982.
"I absolutely believe I still have the chance to take the title in Abu Dhabi," he said. "It won't be easy, but I'll be full attack - just as I have been all season.
"Although this has been my first year fighting for a world championship, I've never felt more comfortable than I have done this year. This is what Formula One is all about and I hope that everyone watching at home has enjoyed the story of this battle as much as I have.
"Win or lose, double points or no double points, I feel proud of what I have achieved this year and especially proud to have been a part of this fantastic season.
"I go into this race with no fear and with every belief that this can be my title. It's not over until that flag drops!"