Yes, but it also depends on the type of person. If it's family that you are really close to them and it shows your love to them. It is an American custom I think. In asia we bow to people. To me embracing some means you love them or just really know them really well.
some friends i kiss hello, some friends i hug hello, and some friends i just say hello to.
my hug and kiss mean a friendly hello depending on how well i know them.