The Australian government will "carefully consider" any asylum application made by the Saudi teen detained at Bangkok airport whose case has gained media attention around the world.

Saudi officials stopped 18-year-old Rahaf Mohammed al-Qunun at Bangkok airport, preventing her from travelling to Australia where she planned to claim asylum.

The Australian government said it was 'pleased' Ms Qunun's claim would be processed by the UNHCR amid a report that Australia was preparing to offer her a humanitarian visa once her application was processed.

"The Australian government is pleased that Ms Rahaf Mohammed al-Qunun is having her claim for protection assessed by the UNHCR," a spokesperson for the Department of Home Affairs said.