Multilingual WordPress Website Development (Custom Theme, WPML)

We need a custom WordPress website built from scratch, with a multilingual platform as a core requirement (3+ languages). This is a full design-to-development build, not a theme customization - a developer/design team is welcome to propose either in-house design or work from provided Figma files. ❗Scope Custom WordPress theme development (from Figma/Sketch, or in collaboration on design) Multilingual architecture setup (WPML or Polylang) - language switcher, translated URL structure, translated ACF fields ACF Pro flexible content blocks for a scalable, editor-friendly CMS Correct hreflang implementation across all languages for SEO Responsive, pixel-perfect front-end (mobile-first) Performance optimization (Core Web Vitals, caching, image optimization) Per-language on-page SEO basics (meta fields, sitemap per locale) Full QA across all languages before launch Staging environment build, then handover to production ❗Out of scope Copywriting or translation (client provides translated content) Ongoing maintenance or a monthly retainer after launch Paid ads or social media management Backend/CRM integrations beyond what's listed above (can be scoped as a separate project) ❗Access & tools Design files (Figma) will be shared, or design can be part of the proposal Staging server access will be provided WordPress admin access for the build CMS: WordPress + ACF Pro + WPML/Polylang Timeline Estimated build time depends on number of languages and pages. This is a one-time project - no minimum contract duration required. ❗To apply, please include A brief outline of your approach to multilingual WordPress architecture Relevant experience with WPML/Polylang and ACF Pro Portfolio examples of similar multilingual builds A rough hour estimate and price range for this scope Your recommendation: WPML vs Polylang, and why