President-elect Donald Trump and future first lady Melania Trump were welcomed by the Obamas as they arrived at the White House ahead of Friday's inauguration.

Axar.az reports that, outgoing President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama gave the Trumps a warm welcome, as they embraced with hugs and kisses on the cheek at the North Portico of America's most famous residence.

The transfer of power got underway as Trump and Obama greeted each other with a handshake before Melania gave Michelle a gift inside a bright blue box from Tiffany.

The couples posed for photos before heading inside for a tea and coffee reception in the Blue Room in the final hours before Trump becomes the 45th president in US history.