Gulf of Aden- one of the most dangerous places in the world for migrants

Migrants mainly from Somalia or Ethiopia traveling across the Gulf of Aden into Yemen are at risk of death from both the journey across the gulf and also from smugglers. "The journey can take 12 to 36 hours, depending on the weather, knowledge of the routes, sea conditions and the situation upon arrival. If smugglers meet patrol boats en route or see coast guards upon arrival, they either force their passengers overboard or attempt to take an alternative route, often adding many hours to the voyage," reports UNHCR.

Yet, despite these dangers, the numbers are increasing. In 2007, more than 26,000 people each paid between $50-150 to make the crossing. The increase in arrivals this year is said to be partly due to the use of new smuggling routes

Yemen is the only country in the Arabian peninsula to have acceded to the 1951 Convention. There are 95,000 refugees living within Yemen, and 95% are Somalis.