Madinat Jumeirah is a complex that includes several hotels and pedestrian streets with restaurants, canals, houses and oriental market. In 2010 it was probably the most beautiful place in Dubai. Part of the complex is open to visitors. We visited the complex two times: at noon and in the evening. If you don't have much time, better come here in the evening.
It's quite difficult to get around inside. We managed to get lost, but found the way in 15 minutes by just going forward.
Getting there: We took the subway to the Mall of the Emirates station and then walked towards the Burj Al Arab hotel. Walk for about 30 minutes and find the entrance to Madinat Jumeirah on the left (marked on the map). Do not turn off from the main road, go straight forward. If it is hot, take a taxi near the metro station.