What is the ruling on a young man going out at night to visit his friends or for dinner and other non-essential matters?

The legal basis is that a woman should remain in her home because it better preserves her chastity and dignity, as stated in the verse: "And abide in your homes and do not display yourselves as [was] the display of [the former] ignorance" (Al-Ahzab: 33). However, it is permissible for her to go out at night if she is safe from temptation, as evidenced by the actions of Aisha and Safiyyah, may Allah be pleased with them.

As for men going out at night to visit friends or have dinner, or for similar permissible activities, it is allowed as there is no evidence prohibiting it.